Illinois Small Business Development Centers- SBDC
It seems that Illinois has a resource for people thinking of starting or growing a small business, their Small Business Resource Centers. For the most part they seem to be tied to colleges and Chambers of Commerce.
But they boast of offering the following services throughout the state:
- One-on-one business advice and management assistance.
- Assistance with the development of business plans.
- Help with accessing market information and the development of marketing plans.
- Assistance with accessing business financing programs.
- Assistance with financial analysis and planning.
- Access to business education and training opportunities.
- Specialized services in technology, innovation and entrepreneurial development.
If these services are as they are stated, this can be a valuable resource. But the who is providing the resources is not given. Hopefully it is from somebody who actually runs a small business and not a bureaucrat.
This link can help you find a Center in your area: http://www.illinois.gov/dceo/SmallBizAssistance/BeginHere/Pages/SBDC.aspx