Small Business Development
If you own a small business or are considering starting one, the Illinois Small Business Development Center (IL SBDC) at ECC offers free and low-cost assistance to help you succeed. As part of the statewide Illinois Entrepreneurship Network, we are affiliated with the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity and are a partnership program with the U.S. Small Business Administration. For more information about these agencies, please visit:
We do offer:
- One-on-one free business counseling and coaching
- Low-cost training workshops and seminars
- Referrals to other sources of information and/or industry professionals
We don't offer:
- Lists or advice on what types of business to start
- Guarantee of actual loans or grants (*)
- To write your business, marketing, or strategic plans for you
*Note: Loans are obtained through financial institutions and other lenders; grants for starting a business are essentially nonexistent.
Counseling Services
Owners and prospective owners of small businesses are welcome to use the free counseling services of the Illinois SBDC. Counseling areas include:
- Business start-up steps such as legal structure, name registration and license/permit issues
- Business, marketing and strategic plan development
- Guidance and technical support for financing/loan applications
- Financial analysis, tax planning and accounting assistance
- Marketing advice and research
- International trade opportunities or government procurement
Call for an appointment today - 847-214-7488.
Free Telephone and Email Business Coaching for Start-ups & Established Businesses
A business coach can help clarify your business goals and objectives and give you the resources you need to operate a successful business. The SBDC’s counseling services provide:
- Professional, trained business coaches with backgrounds in small business issues
- Business counseling from the convenience of your home or office
How it works:
1) Complete a Request for Counseling form (*)
2) Submit the form via fax, email (if scanned with signature) or mail
3) Call 847-214-7488 to schedule an appointment or conference call, or if you have questions on how to fill out the form.
Once your form is on file with our office, you are entitled to unlimited, free, confidential business counseling: a) in person; b) over the phone; c) via email.
*Note: You must sign and date the SBDC agreement on the second page of the form before sending to our office.
Small Business Courses
Constant Contact is a supporter of the IL SBDC at ECC. Visit www.constantcontact.com
Discover available classes and workshops designed to help you succeed in business. More»
Computer Assistance
- Work station for computer use
- Internet access to conduct research