Small Business Owner’s Guide to the CARES Act

The programs and initiatives in the CARES Act that was just passed by Congress are intended to assist business owners with whatever needs they have right now. When implemented, there will be many new resources available for small businesses, as well as certain...

Illinois Businesses Can Now Apply for Disaster Assistance Loans

Illinois has been added to the list of Presidential and SBA Agency Declared Disaster States.  Illinois businesses and non-profits statewide are now eligible to apply for disaster assistance loans via the SBA Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program, a program...

Disaster Assistance Updates – March 17, 2020

We understand your concerns amid these ever-changing circumstances…but you are not alone. We’re here to help you sort through the Disaster Assistance Updates as the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is taking action to address the challenges faced...

SBA Disaster Assistance – Coronavirus

You are not alone.  The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is offering disaster assistance and taking action to address the challenges small businesses face due to the impacts of the coronavirus (COVID-19). While the situation is rapidly evolving, I’d like to...

Illinois Lender Forums 2020 – Growth Corp

Don’t miss this year’s Illinois Lender Forums…your chance to get caught up on SBA Loan Program updates and training opportunities! SBA’s Illinois District Office and Illinois’ SBDC Network are holding a series of free lender forums to...

Small Business Banking – Thinking Outside the Box

Are you a commercial lender focused on small business banking?   If so, let’s look at how a little “thinking outside the box” can help you approve more deals. We all recognize Netflix, Apple, Uber, and Airbnb as industry change agents.  These are...

SMART Goals for 2020

Do you ever feel like you’re working harder but not really getting anywhere?  Setting SMART goals for 2020 will align your team toward an important target while helping to alleviate the natural tendency to fall off-track along the way. Whether you’re in...

Achieve Exponential Growth in 2020

With the new year almost upon us, it’s time to think about seizing new opportunities for exponential growth in 2020.  That’s why the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) developed the 504 Loan Program…to offer business owners a more affordable and accessible way...

Improve Your Chances of Securing a Business Loan

One of the most commonly asked questions we hear from small business owners is, “How can I improve my chances of securing a business loan?” We recommend approaching the financing process the same as you would approach dating.  There are things you can do that improve...

Small Business Saturday is November 30, 2019

This November 30th, you can be a part of the 10th annual holiday shopping tradition called Small Business Saturday that helps to bring communities together in support of their favorite small businesses. Are you ready to Shop Small® and make a big impact in your...