Advising

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Last Updated: Apr 04, 2025, 03:16 PM

We Help Businesses at Every Stage

The Illinois SBDC at SIU is committed to empowering small businesses across Southern Illinois. Whether you're launching your first venture or scaling a successful enterprise, we offer support every step of the way. 

How We Can Help

  • Business Planning
  • Buying and Selling a Business
  • Commercialization Assistance
  • Entrepreneurial Workshops
  • Expansion Planning
  • Financial Management
  • Funding Options
  • Industry Research
  • License and Permits
  • Marketing Strategies
  • Operational Planning
  • Product Development

Register for One-on-One Business Advising

To get started, register as a client. We will follow up to schedule your appointment for no-cost, confidential, one-on-one advising. Advisors can meet in-person, virtually, or by phone. We look forward to assisting you with your business venture!

“The SBDC was crucial in helping me establish my business. They walked me through each step and provided practical solutions as issues arose. Their guidance gave me confidence to move forward.”

Lynne Weeks, Owner​ Reading By The Weeks
A woman and a girl are sitting next to each other at a table. The girls is doing an activity on paper, and the woman is leaning over the paper as if to instruct her.
“The SBDC paired me with an advisor who perfectly complemented my weaknesses, particularly in number analysis. With their guidance, I learned the importance of quantifying every aspect of my business. The value my advisor provided was truly immeasurable.”
Michael Smith, President​, Fired Up Jellies and Jams
A booth at a vendor fair. The pop-up tent is branded "Fired Up Jellies and Jams." The table below is has jelly and jam displays on it. There's a chalkboard in the center that says "free samples." There is a large, vinyl display banner on either side of the table with Fired Up branding. Owner Michael Smith is standing off to the left in a green Fired Up t-shirt.