Resources
The Illinois Small Business Development Center (SBDC)
provides FREE and confidential advising for businesses and entrepreneurs. These services include Business Plan Assistance, Market Expansion, Market Analysis, Financial Analysis and Planning, Social Media Marketing Assistance, Accessing Capital, Industry Research, International Trade, Government Contracting, Solar Energy for Businesses, Business Education and Training, and more! Contact Nate Jordan at N.Jordan@RockValley College.edu or check https://www.rockfordsbdc.org/
The Illinois Department of Commerce & Economic Opportunity (DCEO)
provides FREE and confidential targeted referrals and counseling for economic opportunities to businesses to include site selection; customized workforce training; regional and local collaboration; expedited permitting, licensing and other approvals; connection to key stakeholders and civic and business partners, and potential financial support. Contact Northern Stateline Regional Manager Tiana McCall for more information at 312.533.6970 or tiana.mccall@illinois.gov.
The U.S. Commercial Service
provides confidential support to businesses by promoting trade, exports, and investment to help them compete by providing online and customized market research; support for U.S. exhibitors in selected overseas and domestic trade shows to attract qualified business partners; fee-based programs to introduce exporters of U.S. products to qualified buyers and distributors; individualized counseling and advocacy; and training programs on subjects such as export documentation, export controls, and the basics of exporting. For more information, contact Director of International Trade Adam Shanks at Adam.Shanks@trade.gov.
The Workforce Connection
provides a fully integrated and accessible workforce development system to ensure our region has a skilled workforce to effectively compete in today’s global economy. Business services include apprenticeships, assessments, job postings, talent acquisitions, and training services. For more information, contact Jessica Story at 815.847.7590 or jstory@theworkforceconnection.org.