Workshops and Events | Illinois Small Business Development Center | SIU

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. Facilitated by experienced business professionals or trainers, they cover a wide range of topics, including leadership, project management, communication, marketing, finance, and sales. Some are held in person or online. See below for a list of upcoming workshops; click the links to register:

SBDC Starting Your Business in Illinois

Interested in starting your own business but have questions? Join us for Starting Your Business in Illinois workshop where an advisor will discuss the basics of getting started and answer any questions you may have. This workshop is no-cost and will be held in-person at the Dunn-Richmond Building on the SIU Campus. 1740 Innovation Drive, Carbondale, IL 62903. For questions call 618-536-2424.

Nov. 10, 1PM - 3PM

Dec. 5, 9AM - 11AM 

On-demand 

SBDC and Illinois Procurement Technical Assistance Center at SIU have a variety of free on-demand business-focused workshops. These workshops are available 24x7 and will save your progress, so you can watch them at your convenience.

Starting Your Business in Illinois

Understanding the GATA Pre-award Process

Digital Marketing 101

Business Buildes Breakfast - Thursday, November 16

Join the Carbondale Chamber of Commerce and the IL SBDC at SIU, for a unique networking event designed for small business enthusiasts looking to explore uncharted opportunities. Discover the potential of government collaboration without the bureaucratic jargon. Connect with experienced professionals who have successfully navigated these waters, sharing their insights on how to tap into this often overlooked resource for business growth. This event is your chance to demystify the process and gain valuable knowledge to propel your small business forward. Don’t miss this opportunity to expand your horizons and connect with a community of like-minded entrepreneurs. Anyone is welcome to attend; no cost to attend, please let us know you are coming by registering. 

- Interactive panel discussions
- Local expert insights
- Tips and resources from IL APEX Accelerator at SIU

Sign up today!

Mark your calendars for November 30th!

Join us for an exciting evening celebrating innovation and entrepreneurship at Southern Illinois University Carbondale. Explore creative developments in the university and region, network with like-minded individuals, and gain insights into cutting-edge projects that could shape our community's future. We will also reveal the winners from the Southern Illinois Business Plan Competition Powered By Regions Bank.

4:30 p.m. Food, refreshments and cocktails
5:00 p.m. Welcome remarks and introductions
                Patent presentations
                Launch That Business graduates
                Southern Illinois Business Plan
                       Competition winners presentation
5:30 p.m. Social time

Location: Dunn-Richmond Economic Development Center, 1740 Innovation Drive, Carbondale, IL

Refreshments and cocktails catered by Hunan Fine Asian Cuisine

For more information about the event call 618-536-4451. For disability accommodations, please call 618-453-5738. Click here for event flier

Apex Accelerator at SIU

Federal, state and local governments spend more than $800 billion annually and many of these opportunities are available for small businesses.  Regulations and red tape stop many businesses from applying, but the Illinois APEX Accelerator at SIU helps businesses identify opportunities and become more competitive in selling their goods and services to the government. For more information visit APEX Accelerator | Southern Illinois University (siu.edu)

Are you an aspiring entrepreneur with a brilliant business idea? Are you eager to turn your vision into a successful venture? Look no further! We invite you to participate in the Southern Illinois 2023 Business Plan Competition powered by Regions Bank.

Entrepreneurs are invited to participate in this competition by submitting a full business plan and a 90-second pitch. Winner of the competition have an opportunity to win a share of the $20,000 prize money and in-kind services.

Click here to learn more