Explore the Illinois SBDC at Sauk Valley Community College for no-cost business advising! Discover success stories and grow your business today! Ready to Build a Stronger For-Profit Business in the Sauk Valley? Get no-cost, confidential guidance for starting, growing, and improving your business in the Sauk Valley, Illinois region. Whether you are developing an idea, preparing to launch, seeking funding, strengthening your marketing, or planning for growth, the Illinois SBDC at Sauk Valley Community College provides practical support at every stage. Start My Advising Journey! No Cost Advising at All Stages of Business Development! Idea Are you considering starting a for-profit business? Are you ready to turn that hobby into a legitimate business? Start Let our team guide your decisions during this formative stage to make the most of your time and resources! Growth Our team is equipped to help you scale your business and take it to the next level! Exit Our team is equipped to help you through this stage of the entrepreneurial life cycle! Learn More Illinois SBDC Economic Impact in the Sauk Valley! 1,062+ Our Latest Success Stories in the Sauk Valley! Little Threads and Things Ashley Schwertfeger set out with a simple goal: to provide families with high-quality children’s items in a clean, curated, boutique-style setting. Designed with parents, grandparents, caregivers, and children in mind, Little Threads offers an enjoyable shopping experience while providing a safe play space where children can stay close while adults browse. Challenge: As a mom of two young children, Ashley understood that parents often don't have time to sift through cluttered Sauk SBDC 1 day ago Sashi's Storage Finds Sashi’s Storage Finds LLC in Dixon, Illinois is a resale retail business owned by Roxanne Shaffer, who pursued a new business start by turning informal resale activity into a formal storefront operation. Challenge: Roxanne and her husband had experience acquiring and reselling items from their storage unit business, but they needed guidance to transition that activity into a structured retail business. This included forming the business entity, understanding tax registration Sauk SBDC 1 day ago Fellmonger Fresh Fellmonger Fresh, an artisanal cottage bakery specializing in naturally leavened sourdough breads, pastries, and fresh-brewed canned tea and coffee. Sauk SBDC Jun 9 Lanark Body Shop Mike Gasca is the proud new owner of Lanark Body Shop, a place he’s called his work home since 2017. Over the years, Mike has gotten to know the ins and outs of the shop, its customers, and the community – making his transition from employee to owner a natural next step. Mike is ready to grow Lanark Body Shop and keep serving the community he cares about. Challenge: As a first-time business owner, Mike needed guidance on navigating the purchasing options and operational and Sauk SBDC May 21 Inked Maiden Books Inked Maiden Books is committed to improving access to books and gifts in the Mendota community. This delightful shop showcases a wide variety of popular titles, works by local authors, and thoughtful gifts suitable for every occasion, including seasonal offerings. Nestled in the heart of downtown Mendota, Inked Maiden Books stands out as a unique destination, featuring a carefully curated selection of literary treasures, distinctive gifts, and charming book-themed merchandis Sauk SBDC Apr 27 Better Bargains Dixon Better Bargains Dixon LLC in Dixon, Illinois has a goal of helping local customers find affordable home improvement and home essential goods, and owners Debbie & Chris Robertson pursued a major step forward by purchasing an existing operation and relocating it to better serve the Sauk Valley region. Challenge: Debbie & Chris needed to move quickly from “idea” to a lender-ready purchase and launch plan. That meant building a clear business narrative, tightening projections u Sauk SBDC Apr 3

Discover expert no-cost advising services in the Sauk Valley Region! Learn what we help with, who we serve, and our service approach. Get started today! Advising Services The Illinois Small Business Development Center at Sauk Valley Community College provides no-cost, confidential business advising to entrepreneurs and small business owners throughout the Sauk Valley region. Our advisors work with clients at all stages of business development, providing practical guidance, analysis, and resources to support informed decision-making. Advising services are delivered on a one-on-one basis and are tailored to the specific needs of each business. What We Help With Our services include advising and support in the following areas: Business Planning Development and refinement of business plans, including financial projections and strategic planning. Startup Guidance Assistance with evaluating business feasibility, selecting a legal structure, and navigating the startup process. Financial Analysis and Management Guidance on budgeting, cash flow, pricing, and understanding financial performance. Access to Capital Preparation for financing, including loan readiness, financial documentation, and understanding available funding options. Marketing and Growth Strategy Support with market research, positioning, customer acquisition, and growth planning. Operations and Problem Solving Advising to address operational challenges, improve efficiency, and support long-term sustainability. Training and Workshops Educational programs designed to support both new and existing business owners on key business topics. Who We Serve Services are available to: Aspiring Illinois entrepreneurs planning to start a business in the Sauk Valley Region. Existing Illinois small business owners in the Sauk Valley Region seeking to grow or improve operations Services are limited to for-profit small business ventures that meet SBA and Illinois SBDC program eligibility requirements. Service Approach and Expectations The Illinois SBDC provides advisory services only. Advisors offer guidance, recommendations, and tools, but do not perform work on behalf of clients, make business decisions, or act as legal, accounting, or financial representatives. Clients are expected to actively participate in the advising process and implement recommended actions. Definition of a Small Business The U.S. Small Business Administration generally defines a small business as an independently owned and operated business with fewer than 500 employees. Eligibility may vary based on industry and program guidelines. Cost of Services Services are provided at no cost to eligible clients due to funding from: U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) Local partners Get Started To begin working with an advisor, clients must register through our intake system and schedule an advising session.

Join our on-demand free workshops & training via Zoom, accessible from anywhere. Discover valuable skills with our free workshops today! ADA: In accordance with the American Disabilities Act and state law, you may request accommodations due to a disability by contacting us directly. Advance notice may be necessary for some accommodations. Any client or training registration(s) must be completed prior to accommodation requests. Resident Status: Illinois SBDC services are provided in a nondiscriminatory way to all legal residents and citizens in the US. Workshops & On-Demand Training Thu, Oct 22 Access to Capital Workshop (In-Person) / Sauk Valley Community College, Room 1H16 Register Oct 22, 2026, 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM Sauk Valley Community College, Room 1H16, 173 IL-2, Dixon, IL 61021, USA Share Free On-Demand Webinar - Access Anytime Introduction to Business Plans & LivePlan / On-Demand Zoom Link - See Event Details Register Free On-Demand Webinar - Access Anytime On-Demand Zoom Link - See Event Details Learn how to create a professional business plan from start to finish in this on demand workshop. This session walks you through every section of a complete business plan using LivePlan, an industry leading business planning platform. Share Free On-Demand Webinar - Access Anytime! Advantage Illinois Loan Program On-Demand Webinar / On-Demand Zoom Link - See Event Details Register Free On-Demand Webinar - Access Anytime! On-Demand Zoom Link - See Event Details Learn about the financing program that is available to small business owners! Share Free On-Demand Webinar - Access Anytime Starting a Business in Illinois Webinar / On-Demand Zoom Link - See Event Details Register Free On-Demand Webinar - Access Anytime On-Demand Zoom Link - See Event Details This on-demand webinar is designed to provide aspiring entrepreneurs with the knowledge and tools necessary to successfully launch their own business. Share Free On-Demand Webinar - Access Anytime AI for Small Business On-Demand Webinar / On-Demand - Zoom Register Free On-Demand Webinar - Access Anytime On-Demand - Zoom Share Free On-Demand Webinar - Access Anytime Grant Ready On-Demand Webinar: Unlocking Funding for Your Next Big Idea / On-Demand Zoom Link - See Event Details Register Free On-Demand Webinar - Access Anytime On-Demand Zoom Link - See Event Details Watch Grant Ready on-demand — a no-fluff, practical session designed to help entrepreneurs understand and access available grant opportunities. Share Free On-Demand Webinar - Access Anytime Marketing Essentials for Small Businesses / On-Demand Zoom Link - See Event Details Register Free On-Demand Webinar - Access Anytime On-Demand Zoom Link - See Event Details This free on-demand webinar provides small business owners with practical, low-cost strategies to strengthen their online presence. Share

Discover more about The Center's mission, vision, and role in the network. Learn about our training, workshops, and partnerships in Dixon, IL. About The Center The Illinois Small Business Development Center at Sauk Valley Community College is part of the statewide Illinois SBDC Network and was reestablished in 2017 to serve entrepreneurs and small businesses across the Sauk Valley region. The center is funded in part through a cooperative agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration and the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity, with additional support from local partners including municipalities, counties, financial institutions, and community organizations. What We Do The Illinois SBDC at Sauk Valley Community College provides no-cost, confidential business advising to individuals and businesses at all stages of development. Services include guidance in: Business feasibility and planning Startup development Financial analysis and capital access Business growth and expansion Business transition and exit planning Our role is to provide professional advising, not to perform work on behalf of clients. We equip business owners with the knowledge and tools needed to make informed decisions. Training and Workshops In addition to advising, the center offers training programs and workshops designed to support business owners and entrepreneurs. Workshops are delivered by subject matter experts and cover topics relevant to both startups and established businesses. Training offerings are based on regional demand and business needs. If a topic is not currently offered, businesses are encouraged to contact the center to request future programming. Our Mission To provide professional, confidential advising that supports the growth and sustainability of small businesses in the Sauk Valley region. Our Vision To be a trusted resource for business creation, growth, and long-term success across the Sauk Valley region. How We Fit Into the Network The Illinois SBDC at Sauk Valley Community College operates as part of a statewide system that includes SBDCs, International Trade Centers (ITC), and the APEX Accelerator program. Through this network, clients are connected to specialized resources, technical expertise, and statewide support to help businesses start, grow, and compete. Stakeholders and Advisory Partners The Illinois SBDC at Sauk Valley Community College is supported by a network of funding partners and advisory stakeholders who help guide the direction and impact of the center. Funded Partnerships Our partners help fund the Center to provide no-cost advising services to individuals and small businesses in the Sauk Valley Region! City of Dixon City of Rock Falls City of Sterling Lee County Whiteside County Community State Bank Farmers National Bank Sauk Valley Bank Sterling Federal Bank Northwest Illinois Economic Development Collaborative Advisory Board Partners Our collaborative partners help the Center shape and provide innovative services to our area small businesses! Dixon Chamber of Commerce and Main Street Morrison Chamber of Commerce Oregon Chamber of Commerce Rock Falls Chamber of Commerce Sauk Valley Chamber of Commerce Sterling Main Street Greater Sterling Development Corporation Morrison Area Development Corporation Midland States Bank Blackhawk Hills Regional Council City of Fulton City of Morrison City of Oregon City of Mt. Carroll City of Polo City of Savanna City of Byron Village of Thompson VisitNW Illinois Central Bank Illinois TBK Bank First National Bank in Amboy

Schedule your business advising appointment online today. Discover expert guidance in a virtual setting. Book your appointment now! New Client Registration & Scheduling an Appointment Please review the information and/or explainer video below prior to scheduling an appointment: Getting Started with the Illinois SBDC Thank you for your interest in receving advising services from the Illinois SBDC at Sauk Valley Community College. We advise individuals and small businesses at all stages of business development on a variety of topics. We're funded by a cooperative agreement with the Small Business Administration (SBA) and State of Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity, so all new clients must register for an account and sign our request for consultation agreement before meeting with us. After completing the form under the New Clients section below, you’ll get an email from sbdc@svcc.edu within 1-3 business days with a Calendly link to schedule your appointment. Before you continue, consider the following first: Are you a Not-For-Profit (NFP)?: Our advising is strictly limited to for-profit ventures by our grant agreement with the SBA. Nonprofits should connect with SCORE for guidance. Outside our region? We serve Lee, Whiteside, Ogle, Carroll, Jo Daviess, and Stephenson counties. If you're outside this area, we’ll refer you to the SBDC nearest you . Resident Status: Illinois SBDC services are provided in a nondiscriminatory way to all legal residents and citizens in the US. Still have questions? Check out our FAQ page . By signing up as a client for no-cost advising, you agree to the following: What You Can Expect from Us: Experienced, one-on-one business advising in a format that the advisor feels will benefit you most. A clear action plan to help you achieve your business venture goals. Your advisor won't do the work for you. Honest, constructive feedback for you and your business. Full confidentiality, we don't disclose anything about you or your business without your written consent. Courteous, professional service Follow-up to track your progress What We Expect from You: Assume full responsibility for scheduling your own initial and follow up appointments with the Center. You are the driver of the relationship with our Illinois SBDC team. Be open, honest, and respectful to all Center staff. Do the work that you and your advisor agree is necessary for your business venture. Be open to new ideas or strategies presented by your advisor. Be open to our advising approach, which includes virtual meetings where we present tools and interactive forms. Attend all scheduled meetings and give a minimum 1 business day notice for reschedules and cancellations. Exceptions for emergencies are acknowledged and understood. Complete all satisfaction and economic impact surveys that we send throughout the year. Choose the appropriate option below (Read all information on this page carefully): New Client Registration Are you ready to start now? Did you read the expectations above? Important: We have limited staff and appointment slots. Please sign-up only if you are ready to move forward right away. If you’re just starting out and exploring options, our on-demand webinars are a great first step prior to registering as a new client. Get started by clicking the button below, you will be asked some preliminary questions on a form to ensure you are eligible for our no-cost services. Once completed and eligible , you will be redirected to our eCenter page to fill out the client registration form with your email address and a password of your choice. You’ll be asked for your contact and (if applicable) business information, the type of advising you need, and to sign our client agreement outlining our shared expectations. After you complete your client registration, you'll receive an email from us immediately. It will include a Calendly link to book your initial appointment with us. Be sure to check your spam or junk folder. You are solely responsible for setting your appointment. During your first meeting, we’ll get to know your background, discuss your goals, and outline next steps tailored to your needs. Still have questions? Check out our FAQ page. Complete Client Registration Schedule an Appointment Welcome back to the Illinois SBDC! Use the button below to schedule a meeting with an advisor via Calendly. You must be a registered Illinois SBDC client to book an appointment . If you recently completed your client application, you may also use this link for your initial consultation. Appointments will be cancelled for individuals who do not have a completed client file and a signed client agreement on record with the Illinois SBDC Network. Questions? View our FAQ Page . Schedule Appointment