Our center is OPEN, and providing support virtually!

In this time of immense change, we understand that many small businesses are facing challenges. We are thinking of each and every one of the small business owners of McLean County every day and striving to do our best to provide helpful resources and consulting services.  

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Our SBDC team will continue to listen and educate ourselves to ensure we equally offer and promote our services. We are proud to continue supporting the minority communities and their small business owners of McLean County.

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National Small Business Week

September 21 - 25

For more than 50 years, the U.S. Small Business Administration has celebrated National Small Business Week (NSBW), which recognizes the critical contributions of America’s entrepreneurs and small business owners. This year is one unlike the half-century that has come before.

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We are facing unique challenges together. However, American small businesses continue to play a central role in building a strong country, prepared for any obstacles in the future.

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More than half of Americans either own or work for a small business, and they create nearly two out of every three new jobs in the U.S. each year. As part of NSBW, the SBA takes the opportunity to highlight the impact of outstanding entrepreneurs, small business owners, and others who support entrepreneurship from all 50 states, Washington, D.C. and U.S. territories. Additionally, this year’s NSBW will recognize the small businesses who have navigated the coronavirus pandemic while supporting their employees and communities. There will be a number of presenters providing retooling and innovative practices for entrepreneurs as our nation’s small businesses look to pivot and recover towards a stronger economy.

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Every day, they’re working to grow small businesses, create 21st-century jobs, drive innovation, and increase America’s global competitiveness. For more information about National Small Business Week, visit https://www.sba.gov/national-small-business-week

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Sign up for the free online conference here 

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• Topics include:

  • Tuesday, September 22: 1pm EDT - ​4pm EDT: Opening ceremony and presentation of the National Small Business Award Winners, including the National Small Business Person of the Year.

  • Wednesday, September 23 & Thursday, September 24: 9am EDT - 4pm EDT: Educational presentations and panel discussions that help both new and existing businesses to recover, adapt, and innovate in this challenging time.