SIUE's SBDC Brings Small Business Resources to Fairview Heights

The Illinois Small Business Development Center partners with the city to host a business development event on April 15.

Apr. 3, 2026 at 8:22pm

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A high-end, photorealistic studio still-life photograph featuring a stack of business documents, a pen, and a calculator arranged elegantly on a clean, white seamless background, conceptually representing the abstract concepts of business planning, financial strategy, and entrepreneurial support.A minimalist studio still life captures the essential tools and resources small business owners need to navigate the complexities of launching and growing their ventures.Edwardsville Today

The Illinois Small Business Development Center (SBDC) for the Metro East at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville is partnering with the City of Fairview Heights to host a business development event on April 15. The event will provide entrepreneurs and small business owners with one-on-one consultations, access to key professional services, and a startup seminar covering essential business planning and launch considerations.

Why it matters

As small businesses navigate an increasingly competitive economic landscape, having access to expert guidance, strategic connections, and essential startup education can be critical to their success. This event aims to provide Fairview Heights entrepreneurs and business owners with the resources and support they need to thrive.

The details

The event will feature several key components, including one-on-one business consultations with SBDC advisors, access to the B.A.I.L. Team (Bankers, Accountants, Insurance providers, and Lawyers), and a 'Starting Your Business in Illinois' seminar covering business planning, financing, legal structure, marketing, and other startup considerations. Additionally, a representative from the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity will be on hand to provide insight into state-level resources and support available to business owners.

  • The event will take place on Wednesday, April 15, 2026.
  • One-on-one business consultations will be held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
  • The B.A.I.L. Team access and startup seminar will be held from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m.
  • The DCEO representative will be available from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m.

The players

Jo Ann Di Maggio May

Director of the Illinois SBDC for the Metro East at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville.

Ryan Jenkins

City of Fairview Heights, hosting the SBDC event and supporting the local business ecosystem.

Tracey Glenn

Representative from the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO).

Illinois SBDC for the Metro East

A service of Southern Illinois University Edwardsville that assists entrepreneurs and existing business owners in the nine-county Metro East region.

City of Fairview Heights

Partnering with the Illinois SBDC to host the business development event.

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What they’re saying

“The SBDC is dedicated to delivering the targeted support entrepreneurs need to thrive.”

— Jo Ann Di Maggio May, Director, Illinois SBDC for the Metro East

“Recognizing that capital remains a significant hurdle for growing firms, this initiative provides an immediate link to transformative funding opportunities.”

— Jo Ann Di Maggio May, Director, Illinois SBDC for the Metro East

What’s next

Entrepreneurs and established business owners can schedule private one-on-one consultations with SBDC advisors by calling (618) 650-2929. Seminar registration is available online.

The takeaway

This event highlights the valuable resources and support the Illinois SBDC provides to small businesses in the Metro East region, helping entrepreneurs and owners access the guidance, connections, and education they need to launch and grow their ventures successfully.