Illinois Small Business Development Center

Providing professional guidance for business growth.

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Last Updated: Apr 25, 2025, 04:13 PM

Helping Businesses in Southern Illinois Start, Grow, and Succeed 

Welcome to the Illinois Small Business Development Center (SBDC) at Southern Illinois University, where small business dreams become reality! Named Center of the Year for Illinois in 2024, we're your go-to resource offering free, confidential business advising, dynamic training opportunities, and essential resources.

Our team of Certified Business Advisors is dedicated to supporting entrepreneurs every step of the way – whether you're launching, expanding, or aiming to innovate and thrive. From navigating funding to crafting strategic business plans, mastering digital marketing, and exploring new markets, we provide expert guidance tailored to your needs.

Backed by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity, and Southern Illinois University, our SBDC has been a cornerstone of small business success since 1985. Whether you're an SIU student, staff member, or anyone starting or relocating a business to southern Illinois, we're here for you. Connect with us today to ignite your entrepreneurial journey!

No-Cost Business Assistance

  • One-on-One Advising

    Our certified advisors offer confidential, one-on-one advising services to address the specific needs of your business. To get started, register as a client.

  • Workshops

    Business learning workshops aim to provide attendees with the knowledge, skills, and tools they need to be more effective in their jobs and achieve their professional goals. Register for a workshop to build confidence and expand your expertise.

Our Impact

An infographic of the Illinois SBDC at SIU's annual performance for 2024. 607 clients received one-on-one business advising. 2,464 advising hours. 72 training sessions provided 1260 attendees with business skills and tools. 39 new businesses opened by SBDC clients. 163 jobs created and retained. $2.47 million in financing/capital. The Illinois SBDC at SIU serves small businesses in Franklin, Jackson, Jefferson, Perry, Randolph and Williamson counties. Data is voluntarily self-reported by clients.

Read about our clients’ success stories.

The Illinois SBDC Staff with State Director Ericka White during an award presentation.About Us

Our professional advisors are not only advisors but also entrepreneurs with diverse backgrounds and expertise in a variety of areas such as business planning, market information, business financing programs, financial analysis, prototype development, e-commerce, and intellectual property, among others.

In addition to the business services of the Illinois SBDC at SIU, the Illinois APEX Accelerator at Southern Illinois University provides assistance to help businesses sell their products and services to the government.

Businesses can also receive assistance in exporting their products and services throughout the world through the International Trade Centers, in addition to all the Small Business Development Centers located throughout Illinois and the U.S. Find the nearest center to you. 

Whatever questions you have or business goals you want to achieve, the Illinois Small Business Development Center at SIU can help. Feel free to call us at 618-536-2424 or contact us to set an appointment for no-cost and confidential business guidance.

Our Funding

The Illinois Small Business Development Center at SIU is funded in part through a cooperative agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity and Southern Illinois University.