Illinois SBDC
at the STARVED ROCK COUNTRY ALLIANCE
 

Business Plans

Small businesses need to have a roadmap, whether they are startups or existing businesses. At each point in the development of a small business a business plan is needed, however, one size does not fit all. Using our business plan format with Pro Forma financial preparation we can assist the new venture with a plan to secure financing. With our use of GrowthWheel® 360° assessment tool we can help companies grow by identifying and planning areas of improvement.

Market Research

Using all of the resources available to us from the SBA, the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO), and the Illinois Institute of Rural Affairs (IIRA), we can gather information about your market so that you can make decisions to drive your business forward.

Raising Capital

All companies regardless of size need capital. Our advisors using financial information from various resources can help you benchmark against your peers or work with industry ratios to increase your financing opportunities. Using the Profit Mastery™ system, we are able to educate you in how to analyze what it would take to grow sales to a target volume.

Group Training/Workshops

Our advisors are anxious to guide groups of entrepreneurs through the business process. From starting business education to working with groups within a business, to help understand basic business concepts. Our network can provide training dealing with the intricacies of exporting your product or service. Additional workshops are available on all business topics for Disadvantaged Businesses (Minority, Women, Veterans).

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Financial Management

Small business accounting and understanding the use of it can help a business prosper, the misunderstanding can sink a business. We can connect you with the training and expertise to assist you in the use of QuickBooks®, the small business accounting software that makes your financials understandable and your company run smoother. 

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We can assist you with loan package preparation, financial analysis, annual budgets and general financial literacy.

Exporting

Does your business desire the opportunity to explore and work in the export arena? We can connect you with a Certified Global Business Professional (CGBP) working with the Illinois Office of Trade and Investment (OTI) and the SBA to assist you in identifying, preparing for and penetrating new export markets for your products and services.

Exit Strategies

As the population ages, it is becoming very apparent that preparing a business for transition can be an overwhelming experience for the small business owner. Our specialists can bring one-on-one advisors to the table to assist business owners in positioning their business in the best possible outcome.