Services

Services

Funded by the Illinois SSBCI Program. Delivered by trusted professionals. Free for eligible businesses.

Who We Serve

Socially and Economically Disadvantaged Individuals (SEDI):

We prioritize support for businesses owned by minorities, women, veterans, immigrants, and others who face systemic barriers to growth.

Very Small Businesses (VSBs):

We also work with businesses that employ fewer than 10 people — micro-businesses who often lack the internal resources or external support larger companies enjoy.

 

Where We Serve: Region 3 of the Illinois SSBCI Technical Assistance Program

icon of the map of will county - SBGI services small business in this area
Will County is one of Illinois' fastest-growing regions, with a vibrant mix of urban and rural communities. From Joliet to University Park, local businesses are driving economic growth and job creation. We’re here to support Will County entrepreneurs — whether you're expanding your reach, strengthening your operations, or preparing for funding, we offer personalized services to help you move forward with confidence.

Will County

kankakee county map icon for SBGI program serving businesses in this area
Entrepreneurship in Kankakee County is rooted in resilience and innovation. We know that many minority- and women-owned businesses here face unique challenges accessing capital and professional guidance. Our program provides hands-on, local support to help Kankakee business owners strengthen their financials, navigate funding, and build a solid foundation for growth.

Kankakee County

icon map of Grundy - SBGI Serves Grundy county home of manufacturing and farming icon
As a county with a strong manufacturing and agricultural base, Grundy County businesses are essential to the region’s economy. Yet many smaller operations don’t have access to the financial or legal guidance larger companies enjoy. That’s where we come in — offering free, expert support to help your small business stay competitive, compliant, and financially strong.

Grundy County

kendall county map icon SBGI serves businesses in this area
Kendall County is home to a dynamic and rapidly expanding small business community. As the county grows, so does the need for tailored business services — from tax and accounting support to loan readiness and legal guidance. Our program helps local entrepreneurs make informed decisions and access the resources needed to succeed long-term.

Kendall County

Icon showing three team members with a checklist and directional arrow, representing collaborative business support in accounting, legal, and advisory services.
We meet you where you are — whether you’re just getting your paperwork in order, preparing to apply for funding, or looking to grow with confidence. Our team of accountants, legal professionals, financial advisors, and business experts works alongside you to remove the guesswork and help you build a clear path forward.

Our Approach: Practical, Personal, Proven

Covered Services Through the Illinois SSBCI Program

01.

Tax, Accounting & Bookkeeping

  • Preparation of financial statements for loan and grant readiness

  • Year-end and interim accounting support

  • Bookkeeping and account reconciliation support for financial statement and capital readiness

  • Targeted Clean-up of records for past years for financial accuracy

  • Cash flow analysis and budgeting

  • Setup and training on accounting systems like QuickBooks

  • Digitization and organization of business records

  • Tax structuring guidance (S-Corp vs LLC vs Sole Proprietor)

  • Review of tax readiness and guidance on compliance requirements

  • One-on-one QuickBooks training (including live screen-share sessions)

02.

Legal Support

  • Business formation (LLC, S-Corp, partnership structuring)

  • Drafting or reviewing operating agreements and corporate governance documents

  • Preparing and reviewing contracts and service agreements

  • Trademark and licensing guidance

  • Legal assistance related to funding (term sheets, investor documents)

  • Support navigating permits, registrations, and regulatory requirements

  • Access to multilingual legal assistance for immigrant-owned businesses

03.

Business & Financial Advisory

  • Financial planning and forecasting

  • Assistance with loan packaging and preparing SBA and SSBCI loan applications

  • Investor pitch prep, business plan refinement, and financial modeling

  • Guidance on credit improvement for business funding

  • Analysis of capital structure and funding strategy

  • Business growth clinics (from startup to scale phase)

  • Help establishing banking relationships

  • Strategic planning and operational support

04.

Workshops & Webinars

  • Financial literacy and business management workshops

  • Business structure and tax impact education

  • Marketing strategy coaching and digital presence guidance

  • Culturally competent and language-accessible support

  • On-demand webinars, templates, and planning tools

All services are provided free of charge to eligible participants through our SSBCI grant funding.

Let's Get To Work - Check Your Eligibility

Our Values

01.

Access Over Barriers:

We break down the obstacles that have historically kept SEDI and VSB owners from accessing capital and trusted advisors.

02.

Education Over Intimidation:

We translate complex financial and legal concepts into plain language so you can make empowered decisions.

03.

Partnership Over Transaction:

We build long-term relationships — not just deliverables — because sustainable businesses strengthen entire communities.

Your Growth Is Our Only Mission

Unlike banks, lenders, or private consultants, our only goal is your success. Whether you’re preparing for your first loan, strengthening your financial foundation, or positioning your business for growth, we’re here to make sure you’re ready, resilient, and financially empowered — every step of the way.

 
See if You Qualify

Your Growth Team is Here — at No Cost to You.
Connect With Our Team at 833-807-SBGI (7244)

You’ve already built the vision. We’re here to help strengthen your foundation—with professional accounting support, business advisory guidance, capital readiness resources, and trusted partner connections designed to help Illinois small businesses grow with confidence.

Serving eligible businesses in Will, Kankakee, Kendall, and Grundy Counties.

Funding provided in whole or in part by Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity through the State Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI) Technical Assistance Program.

APPLY FOR SUPPORT