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Business retention and expansion

Blog Posts

Streator Incubator Blog with business icons
Read article: Streator Incubator Feasibility Study
Streator Incubator Feasibility Study
Streator is a forward thinking city. Successful incubation programs operate like the businesses they help launch, whether they’re located in rural...
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Read article: Where Illinois restaurants stand
Where Illinois restaurants stand
Local eateries, restaurants, cafes, pubs, and coffee shops are the social and economic lifeblood of many Illinois communities. Following the stretch...
Read article: Remote workforce creates challenge for business relief
Remote workforce creates challenge for business relief
Overwhelmed, inundated, backlogged. These are just a few of the words employees, employers, government officials, and community leaders are using to...
Read article: Supporting local businesses during COVID-19
Supporting local businesses during COVID-19
Rural community and economic development professionals are working furiously to share the latest information regarding the COVID-19 pandemic. This...
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Read article: Illinois Hospitality Emergency Grants
Illinois Hospitality Emergency Grants
Illinois has announced $14 million for the Hospitality...
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Read article: Understanding low-interest loans: SBA Disaster Assistance
Understanding low-interest loans: SBA Disaster Assistance
UPDATE:  The State of Illinois has received a federal disaster designation, allowing Illinois businesses affected by the coronavirus crisis to apply...
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Read article: Financial first aid for small business: SBA Disaster Assistance
Financial first aid for small business: SBA Disaster Assistance
Many small business owners, especially those required to close, are wondering how to finance their businesses during these difficult times. This...
Read article: Ten Tips for Illinois Businesses to Grow Foreign Trade
Ten Tips for Illinois Businesses to Grow Foreign Trade
Illinois is the largest exporter of goods in the Midwest, and one of the most active states in the US. Our terminals, airports, harbors, rail yards...

News Releases

Community initiatives combat outmigration of young talent in rural areas
URBANA, Ill. ­­– In 2018, 86 of Illinois’ 102 counties experienced population decline, and almost every rural county in Illinois has experienced outmigration of its youngest and brightest talent. “Outmigration of young adults impacts so many areas of the community, including school...
Explore small business export options during free Extension webinar
URBANA, Ill. – Selling abroad can be intimidating, but may be just the boost small businesses facing lasting financial challenges need. University of Illinois Extension is co-hosting a free online webinar covering the fundamentals and benefits of exporting. Local, state, and federal...

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