Her own boss

Elgin business owner Erin Ramirez wasn’t always her own boss. After years of life experiences and a push from her husband, she found the courage to step into the entrepreneurial space. Ready to take the leap but unsure how to succeed, Ramirez found the Illinois Small Business Development Center (Illinois SBDC) at Elgin Community College, which became the lifeline she needed.

The Illinois SBDC at ECC is part of the Workforce Development and Continuing Education division, providing additional support for businesses through internships, apprenticeships, hiring assistance, and training. At the Illinois SBDC’s 2024 Better Your Business Breakfast Ramirez met the center’s director, Ian King. 

“The event offered a lot of value, and so I thought, ‘If they’re able to put this much into a free event, how much can I get from their one-on-one services?’”

Ramirez took advantage of the center’s many no-cost services. Entrepreneurs and small business owners can receive advice on management, marketing, finance, and operations. They benefit from personalized advising and workshops focused on business development. The center is not just for start-ups but also helps clients looking to scale their businesses.

“We take a holistic approach and are very customizable, which sets us apart,” King said. 

The Illinois SBDC meets clients where they are — sometimes, this means laying the foundational work before diving into business plans. King has helped clients with everything from sales coaching to networking and market analysis. 

For Ramirez, that personal touch set the Illinois SBDC apart. With the center’s support, she launched Real Change Studio, where she provides coaching and training to leaders and organizations undergoing company-wide change.

“Change is often uncomfortable,” she said.

Although Ramirez officially launched her business in February,  she has already celebrated significant milestones.

“Thanks to the preparation, I was able to leave my corporate job and earn the same salary in my first month. It’s a big accomplishment and gives me peace of mind that it was worth the wait.”

“I’m thrilled,” Ramirez said, adding that she also started this business with the goal of making these services accessible to local businesses in the area. “Elgin needs this, and it shouldn’t be a luxury service.”

She encourages others to give the Illinois SBDC a chance because it offers its clients understanding and helps them fill in the gaps. 

“Entrepreneurs need that kind of support.”

Read the entire spring 2025 issue of Impact Magazine online here.