Our Services
The Illinois SBDC for the Metro East at SIUE is a community resource backed by the U.S. Small Business Administration, the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity, and the SIUE School of Business. Through its two Small Business Development Centers and an International Trade Center, the SBDC strengthens the Metro East economy by offering free advising, research, and advocacy to entrepreneurs and small business owners — serving as a one-stop resource for anyone looking to start or expand a business in the region.
SBDC services are provided in a nondiscriminatory way to all legal residents and citizens in the US.
Advising
The Illinois SBDC for the Metro East at SIUE provides confidential, no-cost advising services to entrepreneurs and existing business owners. Conducted by trained counselors, these sessions may include discussion and review of business plans, financing options, government assistance programs, marketing, management and other topics of concern to our clients.
- If you would like to meet with us for advising, please register with our office and contact us for your appointment.
Referral Partners
For clients that require specialized services, the SBDC provides referrals to a variety of business professionals and consultants. Many provide free or low-cost initial consultation meetings.
Resources
SBDC clients may visit our business resource library containing reference material on a variety of business-related topics. There is no cost to use the resource center.
The SBDC maintains a database of accountants, attorneys, banks, and other business service providers who are particularly attuned to small-business needs. As the business services arm of the U.S. Small Business Administration and the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity, the SBDC answers your questions concerning federal and state financing programs, bank lending practices, equity investment, and other capitalization options.
Workshops and Seminars
The SBDC conducts seminars and workshops annually on topics important to successful businesses. Approximately half our offerings are directed toward individuals with a new business concept or early stage start-up. The instructors are experienced small-business owners and professional service providers, ensuring that the information provided is timely, relevant, and immediately applicable in a real-world environment.
