Supporting Local Business: Free Expert Help at the Sauk Valley SBDC

Small businesses are the heartbeat of any thriving community, and in the Sauk Valley region, help is just a click away. The Illinois Small Business Development Center (SBDC) at Sauk Valley Community College provides no-cost, confidential consulting services to entrepreneurs and small business owners who are ready to start, manage, or expand their business.

Whether you’re launching a new venture, expanding operations, or navigating economic challenges, the SBDC provides hands-on guidance tailored to your needs. Services include business planning, financial forecasting, marketing strategies, loan packaging assistance, and help with state and federal registrations.

The center also assists clients in selecting the most suitable legal structure, establishing a business credit profile, understanding tax requirements, and implementing effective digital marketing strategies. These areas are critical for establishing long-term success and stability, especially for startups and early-stage businesses.

Additionally, the Sauk Valley SBDC helps businesses explore less commonly pursued opportunities, including government contracting, succession planning, and international trade. Advisors can help you determine if your business is a good candidate for exporting and how to compete for government bids. These areas can open up entirely new revenue streams and markets.

The SBDC also offers business education through workshops and webinars on topics such as bookkeeping, branding, e-commerce, HR compliance, and other relevant areas. These learning opportunities are available throughout the year, enabling entrepreneurs to expand their knowledge and stay current with industry trends.

Thanks to funding from the U.S. Small Business Administration and support from Sauk Valley Community College, all services are provided at no cost. This partnership strengthens economic development across northwest Illinois, ensuring that small businesses have access to high-quality resources without financial barriers.

Appointments can be scheduled online, and each session is tailored to meet your specific business goals and challenges. To learn more or to schedule your free appointment, visit www.sauksbdc.com/appointment.

Sauk Valley Community College

173 IL Rt. 2

Dixon, IL 61021

815-288-5511

www.svcc.edu