News

On Wednesday, April 15, the Illinois Small Business Development Center (SBDC) for the Metro East at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville is partnering with the City of Fairview Heights to host a high-impact business development event designed to help entrepreneurs successfully launch and strengthen their businesses.

As small businesses navigate an increasingly competitive and complex economic environment, having the right foundation and professional network is critical. This event, held at 10025 Bunkum Rd., Fairview Heights brings together expert guidance, strategic connections, and essential startup education, all in one place.

 "The SBDC is dedicated to delivering the targeted support entrepreneurs need to thrive," says Jo Ann Di Maggio May, Director. "Recognizing that capital remains a significant hurdle for growing firms, this initiative provides an immediate link to transformative funding opportunities. We appreciate Ryan Jenkins and the City of Fairview Heights hosting the SBDC and supporting our local business ecosystem.”

Event Highlights for Entrepreneurs and Business Owners:

• One-on-One Business Consultations (10 a.m. – 2 p.m.): Entrepreneurs and established business owners can schedule private sessions with SBDC advisors to receive personalized guidance on business planning, startup strategy, HR support, and growth opportunities.

• B.A.I.L. Team Access (Beginning at 3 p.m.): Attendees will have the opportunity to connect with key members of their external professional team—Bankers, Accountants, Insurance providers, and Lawyers—who play a critical role in building a strong and sustainable business.

• Startup & Foundational Seminar (3 p.m. – 5 p.m.): The “Starting Your Business in Illinois” seminar provides a comprehensive overview of launching a business, including business planning, financing, legal structure, marketing, and other essential startup considerations.

In addition, Tracey Glenn from the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) will be on hand from 2-4 p.m. to provide insight into state-level resources and support available to business owners.

Registration Information:
Attendance is at no cost, but space for one-on-one consultations is limited. To schedule a confidential appointment, call (618) 650-2929. Seminar registration is available online. 

The Illinois SBDC for the Metro East assists entrepreneurs as well as existing business owners operating in the nine-county Metro East region of Madison, St. Clair, Clinton, Calhoun, Jersey, Bond, Monroe, Washington, and Randolph counties. It enhances the region’s economic interests by providing one-stop assistance through counseling, training, research, and advocacy for new and expanding businesses.

Illinois SBDC services are funded in part through a cooperative agreement among the U.S. Small Business Administration, the Illinois Department of Commerce & Economic Opportunity, and Southern Illinois University Edwardsville as a service to the community.

To learn how these no-cost services may help your business venture, contact the Metro East SBDC at (618) 650-2929 or sbdcedw@gmail.com.

PHOTO: Promotional flyer for Starting Your Business in Illinois