JIM SLAMA NAMED NOTABLE LEADER IN PHILANTHROPY BY CRAIN'S

For a quarter century, Naturally Chicago Managing Director Jim Slama has been a catalyst in Chicago's community of advocates seeking a better, healthier, more sustainable food system.

Now, his work — and the work of Naturally Chicago — has been acknowledged by Crain's Chicago Business, which has named him among its 2025 Notable Leaders in Philanthropy.

By coincidence, their philanthropy leaders feature was published in the print issue dated June 2 — the same day as Naturally Chicago's Pitch Event and Forum. That provided our organization with the opportunity to announce the accolade at the conclusion of our big event. 

That's Jim in the top photo with Naturally Chicago Board Chairman Will Madden, members of our Board and staff, and Ivan Gutierrez of Tierra Negra Dark Salsa, winner of our 2025 Pitch Slam.

Screenshot from Crain’s Chicago Business

Here's what Crain's had to say about Jim:

Scope of work: Slama co-founded and leads Naturally Chicago, a regional association for the natural products industry. He manages a five-person team and oversees partnerships with more than 150 brands and over 50 corporate supporters across investment, retail and distribution sectors.

Nonprofit contribution: In 2023, he launched the Locally Made program, connecting emerging founders with major retailers — including Whole Foods, Walmart and Costco — and a network of 50-plus investors. He has cultivated strong industry relationships and brought in substantial financial support to grow the organization’s impact.

Other contributions: Slama is a member of the Economic Club and Executives’ Club.

Congratulations to Jim Slama for this well-earned acknowledgement.