Unleashing

the power

of small business™

Help at Every Stage

If you currently own a business and are looking for resources to help your business grow, have a business idea, or have an interest in starting a business, the SBDC is a good first step.

Grow Your Business

We’re experienced in growth strategies and can offer advisory support and resources such as GrowthWheel and Lean StartUp to help your business achieve success.

Advising & Resources

We provide no cost, confidential, individual consultation in all functional areas of business. If we can’t answer your question, we’ll refer you to the organization that can.

Start Your Business

Our workshops and one-on-one consultations will provide you with the tools, knowledge and guidance necessary to start your business.

Take the first step and let us help you and your small business.
Remember, our services are offered free of charge.
Become a Client

Our Partners

The Illinois Small Business Development Center at Champaign County EDC is funded through a cooperative agreement between the U.S. Small Business Administration, Illinois Department of Commerce, and the Champaign County Economic Development Corporation; with additional support provided by EDC of Decatur and Macon County and the Midwest Inland Port.

US Small Business Administration Logo
Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity
Champaign County Illinois Economic Development Corporation
EDC of Decatur and Macon County
Passionately providing business resources, insight and knowledge to small business owners with the desire, drive and determination to reach their goals.

Our Team

  • Testimonial

    Don Elmore

    Director, Illinois Small Business Development Center at Champaign County EDC

    About Don Elmore

    Don Elmore brings many years of experience in consulting, executive and managerial roles to his position as Director of this Small Business Development Center. Those experiences have taken him into a variety of industries including computer-assisted instruction, networking products, scientific instruments, software development and publishing. He also co-owns a small retail business in Champaign, so he has firsthand experience with the issues faced by many small business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs. Don provides help in a number of areas under the heading “business counseling” including start-up assistance, business plan development, financing, marketing strategy and more.

  • Testimonial

    Mariel Huasanga, CGBP

    International Trade Center Director, Illinois Small Business Development Center at Champaign County EDC

    About Mariel Huasanga, CGBP

    Mariel Huasanga is a seasoned exporter, and has traveled to more than 55 countries, lived abroad, received certifications in international logistics and international market intelligence, and founded two companies – a chemical/textile consulting firm and a biotechnological/chemical business.

Contact Us

Tap into one of Champaign County’s most valuable resources for small business. The SBDC is here and ready to help you unleash the power of your small business. Contact us today to speak with one of our trusted advisors.