Bespoke, a commercial real estate firm specializing in creating value for Chicago-based, private businesses and non-profit organizations, represented Susan G. Komen Chicago in its recent office relocation from the northwest suburbs to downtown Chicago. The non-profit required a space that was more collaborative and modern to adapt to today’s changing work environments. Komen Chicago also needed a location that would help accommodate growth and further its efforts to meet critical needs in local communities and invest in breakthrough research to prevent and cure breast cancer.

“Bespoke is honored to partner with Komen Chicago and support the amazing work that they do to provide breast health services for the underserved and fund global research,” said Vice President Emily Smith. “To ensure their work continues to positively impact the community, we knew the organization needed an office space that would be a key contributor to its fundraising and research efforts. After assessing its needs, we found the perfect space that hit every criterion, while still shaving about $100K off their overhead in one of the tightest submarkets in the country. Additionally, through our strategic partner, Office Revolution, we were able to get the non-profit close to $90K in new furniture for a very low cost.”

By evaluating several options and ultimately finding a landlord that believed in the company’s mission and brand, Bespoke secured a well below market deal with numerous concessions. Komen Chicago’s new office consists of open, collaborative spaces with break out areas that align with staff needs, a complete transformation from the constricted, private offices in the previous space.

“The Komen Chicago team is beyond grateful to Bespoke for getting us into one of Chicago’s most desirable locations to work. River North offers easy access to public transportation, while attracting top professionals to carry out our mission in helping turn millions of breast cancer patients into breast cancer survivors,” said Executive Director Bonnie Gordon. “A very special thanks goes out to Emily Smith; we would not be in this space without her hard work, dedication, and passion. Our new space is not only conducive to the work that we do, but the interactive environment serves us well when hosting our donors, partners, and constituents.”

Smith added, “We are very proud of this deal since the savings achieved for Komen Chicago translate into 1,055 mammograms for Chicagoland women who otherwise might not have access to lifesaving screenings.”

Additionally, events such as the Komen Chicago First Annual Ride for the Cure® are integral to the non-profit’s mission to raise significant funds and awareness for the breast cancer movement, celebrate breast cancer survivorship, and honor those who have lost their battle with the disease. To donate or participate in the inaugural Chicago Ride for the Cure, happening on September 17 at Dawes Park, Evanston, click here.