SBDC Success Stories

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Last Updated: Dec 18, 2024, 03:40 PM

2024 Success Stories

  • Taste & Live

    Black business: Mobile Food Truck

    Taste & Live Food Truck

    From dream to reality: Jerri Young, owner of Taste & Live, turned her passion for wellness and vegetarian cuisine into a thriving mobile food truck business with the help of the Illinois Small Business Development Center at SIU. Discover how expert guidance, a business accelerator program, and a leap of faith transformed her vision into a local favorite in Southern Illinois.

  • Reading By The Weeks

    Lynn Weeks tutoring a child

    Passion meets purpose: Lynne Weeks, founder of Reading By The Weeks, helps children with dyslexia, ADHD, and autism overcome literacy challenges. Her customized approach empowers young readers to build confidence and embrace the joy of learning.

  • The Venue by Bloom Ridge Farm

    The Venue

    In Southern Illinois wine country, The Venue by Bloom Ridge Farm offers rustic charm and modern elegance with its event barn and lavender-lined chapel—perfect for unforgettable celebrations year-round.

  • Quick Magic Gardens

    Mary Keller with flowers from garden

    A family-owned floral business in Carbondale, creates personalized arrangements for every occasion, from weddings to celebrations of life. With a focus on quality and community, the Kellers are growing their business and expanding their services to become a trusted local favorite.

  • True Nature Holistic Arts

    Pat York teaching sound meditation

    True Nature Holistic Arts in Carbondale offers yoga, sound therapy, and salt therapy to promote wellness and balance. Opened in 2023, the center has quickly become a hub for holistic healing and community growth, with plans to expand its offerings and continue fostering well-being for mind, body, and spirit.

  • Flabby Daddy Dips

    Samples of Flabby Daddy Dips on a table
    Flabby Daddy Dips LLC, a woman-owned southern Illinois business, offers all-natural dips and slushy mixes. Founded in 2019 by Kathy Eckols, the company has grown with support from the Illinois SBDC at SIU, helping her refine marketing, expand online, and share unique flavors nationwide.

Client Success Stories

Southern Illinois thrives on the passion and innovation of its entrepreneurs, who bring energy, creativity, and opportunity to our region. We are dedicated to celebrating their journeys and achievements, showcasing the diverse ways they’ve enriched our community. Learn more about their success below!