Business Resources

IL SBDC at SIU offers no-cost and always confidential business advice to help you start, grow, and succeed in your business. See the SIU Small Business Development Center’s website for workshops and services that are provided to Illinois business owners at no charge.

To learn more about IL SBDC at SIU services or set up an appointment, contact bizhelp@siu.edu or (618) 536-2424.

Contract opportunities may exist for you, and APEX Accelerator can help with the necessary steps to be prepared for government contracts.

• Small Business Set Aside Program: Every year the Chief Procurement Officer sets aside over 400 million for small businesses to contract with the State of Illinois. Learn how your small business can get certified to contract with the State.
  • Small Business Set Aside Program (SBSP) (illinois.gov)
  • APEX Accelerator | Southern Illinois University (siu.edu)
  • Our PTAC office can help you. Call (618) 536-2355.

Help with Employee Training/Costs through Illinois Worknet/American Job Center

• If, like many, you are facing labor shortages or untrained labor, there is some help with the potential for up to 50% payroll reimbursement.
• You may also seek assistance in setting up an apprenticeship program in your business.
• See the Network & Connect Illinois WorkNet Service Finder site for organizations in our region and more info.

The Community Navigator Program is made available at no cost from funding through the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity and the Greater Egypt Regional Planning and Development Commission.

To learn more about our services or set up an appointment, contact bizhelp@siu.edu or (618) 536-2424.