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DTSTAMP:20260722T212502
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LAST-MODIFIED:20250409T152808Z
UID:10000253-1750068000-1750071600@cusbdc.org
SUMMARY:Illinois APEX Accelerator Webinar: Certification Series Part 2 – SBA Small Business Certifications
DESCRIPTION:This session is part 2 of a 4-part series. \nPresented by Keli Krueger-Huhra\, Director – Illinois APEX Accelerator at Champaign County EDC \nThis course provides an in-depth review of the Small Business Administration (SBA) certifications designated for small businesses pursuing opportunities in the federal government marketplace. In this webinar you will learn the specifics of how to qualify a business for Small Business Self Certification and a Small Disadvantaged Business (SDB).  In addition\, we will introduce the SBA’s new unified certification website\, MySBA Certifications portal and the process and requirements for application in the 8(a) Business Development Program\, Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB)\, Veteran-Owned Small Business (VOSB)\, Historically Underutilized Business Zones (HUBZone)\, Woman-Owned Small Business (WOSB)\, and Economic Disadvantaged Woman-Owned Small Business (EDWOSB).  Take advantage of this program to gain the confidence to apply for certification. \nDate: Monday\, June 16\, 2025\nTime: 10-11 AM \nRegister: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_73d19jmKQjKowrMO02Fr1Q\n*After registering\, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting. \nPLEASE NOTE: this webinar will be recorded and may be shared publicly. By registering for this webinar\, you understand that your questions or comments shared during the webinar will be recorded and shared in a public domain.
URL:https://cusbdc.org/event/illinois-apex-accelerator-webinar-certification-series-part-2-sba-small-business-certifications-2/
LOCATION:Webinar
CATEGORIES:APEX
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250609T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250609T110000
DTSTAMP:20260722T212502
CREATED:20250409T152728Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250409T152728Z
UID:10000252-1749463200-1749466800@cusbdc.org
SUMMARY:Illinois APEX Accelerator Webinar: Certification Series Part 1 – Why Certify?
DESCRIPTION:This session is part 1 of a 4-part series. \nPresented by Keli Krueger-Huhra\, Director – Illinois APEX Accelerator at Champaign County EDC \nSocioeconomic contracting programs can be a boon for small businesses. Whether as an 8(a) Program participant\, a service-disabled veteran-owned small business\, a woman-owned small business\, or a HUBZone company\, or State of Illinois Business Enterprise Program\, small businesses can take advantage of set-aside and sole source contract opportunities. \nWhen pursuing federal contract opportunities\, it’s important for small businesses to take advantage of every benefit available to them. Learning about and leveraging socioeconomic programs is a great tool to increase your business’s competitiveness. \nJoin us as we present an overview of the available certifications and benefits available to participants.  Three additional sessions will be available with details specific to the state and federal certifications discussed in this webinar. \nDate: Monday\, June 9\, 2025\nTime: 10-11 AM \nRegister: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_qtG64InSQnGJ_A-04I1xcQ\n*After registering\, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting. \nPLEASE NOTE: this webinar will be recorded and may be shared publicly. By registering for this webinar\, you understand that your questions or comments shared during the webinar will be recorded and shared in a public domain.
URL:https://cusbdc.org/event/illinois-apex-accelerator-webinar-certification-series-part-1-why-certify-2/
LOCATION:Webinar
CATEGORIES:APEX
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250520T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250520T110000
DTSTAMP:20260722T212502
CREATED:20250409T152638Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250409T152638Z
UID:10000251-1747735200-1747738800@cusbdc.org
SUMMARY:Illinois APEX Accelerator Webinar: Deconstructing the RFQ/RFP Solicitation
DESCRIPTION:Presented by Keli Krueger-Huhra\, Director – Illinois APEX Accelerator at Champaign County EDC \nIt can seem overwhelming to find a federal government solicitation you’re interested in but first need to understand what it would take to bid on this opportunity. This is our tax dollars at work\, so it’s necessary for municipal\, state\, and federal contracts to use a transparent process to keep track of what\, where and how our money is being spent. This webinar will provide an understanding of the common parts of a solicitation document to properly prepare a bid. Our objective is to make working with challenging government bid documents seem more reasonable by allowing you to familiarize yourself with the usual sections and lingo involved in the procurement procedure.  At the end of the webinar\, you’ll understand where to find the government’s requirement in a bid document. \nDate: Tuesday\, May 20\, 2025\nTime: 10-11 AM \nRegister: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_cwvWAkKkSRirwZTczPj1gA\n*After registering\, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting. \nPLEASE NOTE: this webinar will be recorded and may be shared publicly. By registering for this webinar\, you understand that your questions or comments shared during the webinar will be recorded and shared in a public domain.
URL:https://cusbdc.org/event/illinois-apex-accelerator-webinar-deconstructing-the-rfq-rfp-solicitation-2/
CATEGORIES:APEX
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250513T140000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250513T150000
DTSTAMP:20260722T212502
CREATED:20250409T152557Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250409T152557Z
UID:10000250-1747144800-1747148400@cusbdc.org
SUMMARY:Illinois APEX Accelerator Webinar: Start Now in Government Contracting Series Part 3 – Capability Statements
DESCRIPTION:This session is part 3 of a 3-part series. \nPresented by Keli Krueger-Huhra\, Director – Illinois APEX Accelerator at Champaign County EDC \nIn this session\, we will uncover the five essential sections that every powerful Capabilities Statement needs to include: \n\nCore Competencies\nDifferentiators\nPast Performance\nCompany Data\nContact Information\n\nYou’ll understand how to highlight your successes\, showcase your strengths\, and set your business apart from your competitors.  We’ll also discuss design dos and don’ts to ensure your Capabilities Statements stand out in decision-makers’ eyes.  This is also an opportunity to ask questions about your existing Capabilities Statement and how to perfect it. \nDate: Tuesday\, May 13\, 2025\nTime: 2-3 PM \nRegister: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_hBkfsQZLTHSmfSMNECkteg\n*After registering\, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting. \nPLEASE NOTE: this webinar will be recorded and may be shared publicly. By registering for this webinar\, you understand that your questions or comments shared during the webinar will be recorded and shared in a public domain.
URL:https://cusbdc.org/event/illinois-apex-accelerator-webinar-start-now-in-government-contracting-series-part-3-capability-statements-2/
LOCATION:Webinar
CATEGORIES:APEX
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250502T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250502T110000
DTSTAMP:20260722T212502
CREATED:20250409T152443Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250409T152443Z
UID:10000249-1746180000-1746183600@cusbdc.org
SUMMARY:Illinois APEX Accelerator Webinar: Start Now in Government Contracting Series Part 2 – Develop Your Government Market Plan: Building Relationships with Your Target Agencies & Allies
DESCRIPTION:Presented by Keli Krueger-Huhra\, Director – Illinois APEX Accelerator at Champaign County EDC \nBuilding a reputation as an expert in your industry\, building relationships with potential customers and partners\, and getting face time at industry events or meetings are as vital in government business as they are in private sector sales.  However\, due to government acquisition regulations\, it is critical to establish relationships and build trust long before a solicitation is released. In this session\, we’ll explore the pivotal role that marketing plays in winning government procurement opportunities.  We’ll delve into the resources available for small businesses to connect with their target agencies\, such as agency OSDBUs\, SBA PCRs\, SBLOs\, and other allies who advocate for small businesses.  We’ll look at marketing tools such as the Dynamic Small Business Search to enhance your company’s visibility to agencies and primes. You’ll also learn to find and prepare for networking and matchmaking events.  Don’t miss this opportunity to elevate your marketing game in the procurement landscape. \nDate: Friday\, May 2\, 2025\nTime: 10-11 AM \nRegister: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_-u7I9ltrSduTxRf1trSTWQ\n*After registering\, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting. \nPLEASE NOTE: this webinar will be recorded and may be shared publicly. By registering for this webinar\, you understand that your questions or comments shared during the webinar will be recorded and shared in a public domain.
URL:https://cusbdc.org/event/illinois-apex-accelerator-webinar-start-now-in-government-contracting-series-part-2-develop-your-government-market-plan-building-relationships-with-your-target-agencies-allies-2/
LOCATION:Webinar
CATEGORIES:APEX
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250422T140000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250422T150000
DTSTAMP:20260722T212502
CREATED:20250321T143420Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250321T143420Z
UID:10000247-1745330400-1745334000@cusbdc.org
SUMMARY:Illinois APEX Accelerator Webinar: Mentor / Protégé Programs
DESCRIPTION:Presented by Keli Krueger-Huhra\, Director – Illinois APEX Accelerator at Champaign County EDC \nDid you know that you can accelerate government contracting success through Mentor-Protégé Programs?  The purpose of the MPP is to enhance the capabilities of protégé firms by requiring approved mentors to provide business development assistance to protégé firms and to improve the protégé firms’ ability to compete for federal contracts successfully.  Multiple programs are created to incentivize Prime Contractors to assist small businesses and increase participation in government and commercial contracts.  Join us as we discuss the benefits for the Mentors and the Proteges by participating in one of these programs. \nDate: Tuesday\, April 22\, 2025\nTime: 2-3 PM \nRegister: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_VAK3yci7TKieTVeokG4DlA\n*After registering\, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting. \nPLEASE NOTE: this webinar will be recorded and may be shared publicly. By registering for this webinar\, you understand that your questions or comments shared during the webinar will be recorded and shared in a public domain.
URL:https://cusbdc.org/event/illinois-apex-accelerator-webinar-mentor-protege-programs/
LOCATION:Webinar
CATEGORIES:APEX
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250411T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250411T110000
DTSTAMP:20260722T212502
CREATED:20250321T142640Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250321T142640Z
UID:10000246-1744365600-1744369200@cusbdc.org
SUMMARY:Illinois APEX Accelerator Webinar: Start Now in Government Contracting Series Part 1 – Conducting Market Research
DESCRIPTION:This session is part 1 of a 3-part series. \nPresented by Keli Krueger-Huhra\, Director – Illinois APEX Accelerator at Champaign County EDC \nWhat do we find when we do Market Research?  Propensity!  In other words: \n\nWho buys what you sell?\nHow do they buy it?\nHow often do they buy it?\nHow much they are buying?\n\nThis is the beginning of the journey to determine if government contracting is a good fit for your business.  In the first of our 3-part series\, we will help you decide whether you can compete based on what the marketplace tells you.  You’ll learn how to effectively use available resources to perform research for past awards\, current agency opportunities\, and forecasts to determine which agencies use your product or services.  We’ll show you how to generate agency top ten lists and see how you can get questions answered by using the search criteria for informing the results. \nDate: Friday\, April 11\, 2025\nTime: 10-11 AM \nRegister: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_LsnGyGh1TOOWvOWHRICEUA \n*After registering\, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting. \nPLEASE NOTE: this webinar will be recorded and may be shared publicly. By registering for this webinar\, you understand that your questions or comments shared during the webinar will be recorded and shared in a public domain.
URL:https://cusbdc.org/event/illinois-apex-accelerator-webinar-start-now-in-government-contracting-series-part-1-conducting-market-research-2/
LOCATION:Webinar
CATEGORIES:APEX,Certification Series
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250328T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250328T110000
DTSTAMP:20260722T212502
CREATED:20250206T210352Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250206T210352Z
UID:10000227-1743156000-1743159600@cusbdc.org
SUMMARY:Illinois APEX Accelerator Webinar: How to Respond to an RFP/RFQ – Mastering Proposal Writing
DESCRIPTION:Presented by Keli Krueger-Huhra\, Director – Illinois APEX Accelerator at Champaign County EDC \nUnlock the foundations and building blocks to crafting compelling\, winning proposals with our in-depth presentation.  We will cover important aspects of the process to respond to government solicitations.  This includes understanding the clients’ needs to structure your response and addressing their evaluation criteria.  Gain the skills and strategies needed to stand out in competitive bid processes and avoid Common Pitfalls in Proposal Development. \nDate: Friday\, March 28\, 2025\nTime: 10-11 AM \nRegister: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_DnV0ENmLTJmIacVDV1ud-w\n*After registering\, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting. \nPLEASE NOTE: this webinar will be recorded and may be shared publicly. By registering for this webinar\, you understand that your questions or comments shared during the webinar will be recorded and shared in a public domain.
URL:https://cusbdc.org/event/illinois-apex-accelerator-webinar-how-to-respond-to-an-rfp-rfq-mastering-proposal-writing/
LOCATION:Webinar
CATEGORIES:APEX
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250320T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250320T110000
DTSTAMP:20260722T212502
CREATED:20250206T210255Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250206T210255Z
UID:10000226-1742464800-1742468400@cusbdc.org
SUMMARY:Illinois APEX Accelerator Webinar: Certification Series Part 4 – USDOT (IDOT) Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) Certification
DESCRIPTION:This session is part 4 of a 4-part series. \nPresented by Keli Krueger-Huhra\, Director – Illinois APEX Accelerator at Champaign County EDC \nIn accordance with 49 CFR Part 26 the Illinois Department of Transportation Office of Business and Workforce Diversity administers the DBE program.  The DBE regulations mandate that minority and women owned businesses be afforded the opportunity to participate in IDOT federally assisted highway\, transit and airport contracts.  Businesses involved in highway construction-related services (non-vertical)\, consultants\, and supplier/equipment\, rental/trucking services are considered for participation in IDOT’s DBE Program. In this session we will discuss the options to apply for DBE certification along with the requirement and process. \nDate: Thursday\, March 20\, 2025\nTime: 10-11 AM \nRegister: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_TeDqFUZ9QnKELciVPi_5mA\n*After registering\, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting. \nPLEASE NOTE: this webinar will be recorded and may be shared publicly. By registering for this webinar\, you understand that your questions or comments shared during the webinar will be recorded and shared in a public domain.
URL:https://cusbdc.org/event/illinois-apex-accelerator-webinar-certification-series-part-4-usdot-idot-disadvantaged-business-enterprise-dbe-certification/
LOCATION:Webinar
CATEGORIES:APEX,Certification Series
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250310T140000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250310T150000
DTSTAMP:20260722T212502
CREATED:20250206T210123Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250219T215016Z
UID:10000225-1741615200-1741618800@cusbdc.org
SUMMARY:Illinois APEX Accelerator Webinar: Craft a Compelling Business Description
DESCRIPTION:Presented by Natalie Marquez\, Founder – Grow Marketing + Communications\, LLC \nThere are so many places that you need to describe your business\, whether it’s on your website\, at a networking event\, on social media\, or in an “about the company” feature in the media. Without a solid company description\, your brand may come off as inconsistent or unprofessional. How can you convey what makes your business special in just a few hundred characters? \nIn this interactive webinar you will learn why you need to have a business description\, why a business description is different from your company profile and learn how to introduce an on-brand business description. Grow Marketing + Communications will make the process easy for you to walk away with a compelling description that will provide your audience a quick overview of your business that you can start using immediately. \nDate: Monday\, March 10\, 2025\nTime: 2-3 PM \nRegister: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_IsLXy8T7T66Iazd-rualnQ\n*After registering\, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting. \nPLEASE NOTE: this webinar will be recorded and may be shared publicly. By registering for this webinar\, you understand that your questions or comments shared during the webinar will be recorded and shared in a public domain. \nNatalie Marquez is the Founder of Grow Marketing + Communications\, LLC\, a firm that provides business development\, marketing\, branding\, and communication support. Natalie has served a variety of startups in the healthcare and agriculture sectors. She also works closely with small businesses across the state of Illinois to provide strategic leadership and expertise to help companies achieve their marketing goals. Natalie also has an interest in supporting nonprofits by providing fCMO (fractional chief marketing officer) services. This allows nonprofits to access strategic marketing expertise and the experience of a CMO without having to incur the full cost of hiring a full-time employee.
URL:https://cusbdc.org/event/illinois-apex-accelerator-webinar-craft-a-compelling-business-description/
LOCATION:Webinar
CATEGORIES:APEX
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250228T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250228T110000
DTSTAMP:20260722T212502
CREATED:20241118T141422Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250226T171802Z
UID:10000186-1740736800-1740740400@cusbdc.org
SUMMARY:Illinois APEX Accelerator Webinar: Start Now in Government Contracting Series Part 3 – Capability Statements
DESCRIPTION:This session is part 3 of a 3-part series. \nPresented by Keli Krueger-Huhra\, Director – Illinois APEX Accelerator at Champaign County EDC \nIn this session\, we will uncover the five essential sections that every powerful Capabilities Statement needs to include: \n\nCore Competencies\nDifferentiators\nPast Performance\nCompany Data\nContact Information\n\nYou’ll understand how to highlight your successes\, showcase your strengths\, and set your business apart from your competitors.  We’ll also discuss design dos and don’ts to ensure your Capabilities Statements stand out in decision-makers’ eyes.  This is also an opportunity to ask questions about your existing Capabilities Statement and how to perfect it. \nDate: Friday\, February 28\, 2025\nTime: 10-11 AM \nRegister: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_iUMEyvxxSzKDMpCecOPndw\n*After registering\, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting. \nPLEASE NOTE: this webinar will be recorded and may be shared publicly. By registering for this webinar\, you understand that your questions or comments shared during the webinar will be recorded and shared in a public domain.
URL:https://cusbdc.org/event/illinois-apex-accelerator-webinar-start-now-in-government-contracting-series-part-3-capability-statements/
LOCATION:Webinar
CATEGORIES:APEX
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250220T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250220T110000
DTSTAMP:20260722T212502
CREATED:20250123T170348Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250128T144309Z
UID:10000218-1740045600-1740049200@cusbdc.org
SUMMARY:Illinois APEX Accelerator Webinar: Collaborating & Contracting with the U.S. Army ERDC
DESCRIPTION:Presented by Elyce Curry\, Innovation Project Manager – ERDCWERX \nAs Illinois APEX Accelerators are encouraged to support small businesses in pursuit of Other Transaction Authorities (OTAs) and other opportunities with the federal government\, we would like to introduce ERDCWERX\, a government partner of the U.S. Army Engineer Research and Development Center (ERDC). \nERDCWERX\, an innovation hub of DEFENSEWERX\, provides a streamlined path to collaboration and contracting with ERDC. ERDCWERX events\, tech challenges\, and other opportunities make it easier and faster for innovators to propose solutions for ERDC to consider. As a result of ERDCWERX’s partnership with ERDC\, a growing number of contracts and agreements are being awarded to industry and academia. \nYou’ll also hear from Kimberly Dulaney with the U.S. Army ERDC Office of Small Business Programs. \nAttendees will learn more about: \n\nU.S. Army ERDC and its focus areas\nTech challenges\, Other Transaction Authorities (OTAs)\, Commercial Solutions Openings (CSOs)\, and other opportunities for small businesses to collaborate with ERDC\nLicensing ERDC technology\nWays to receive project announcements\n\nDate: Thursday\, February 20\, 2025\nTime: 10-11 AM \nRegister: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_nQ_wYJZaQK6oJIcsbdmfZg\n*After registering\, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting. \nPLEASE NOTE: this webinar will be recorded and may be shared publicly. By registering for this webinar\, you understand that your questions or comments shared during the webinar will be recorded and shared in a public domain. \n 
URL:https://cusbdc.org/event/illinois-apex-accelerator-webinar-collaborating-contracting-with-the-u-s-army-erdc/
LOCATION:Webinar
CATEGORIES:APEX
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250218T140000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250218T150000
DTSTAMP:20260722T212502
CREATED:20250122T152754Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250205T144313Z
UID:10000217-1739887200-1739890800@cusbdc.org
SUMMARY:Illinois APEX Accelerator Webinar: Certification Series Part 3 - State of Illinois Business Enterprise & Veteran Business Programs Certifications
DESCRIPTION:This session is part 3 of a 4-part series. \nPresented by:\nKeli Krueger-Huhra\, Director – Illinois APEX Accelerator at Champaign County EDC\nJohnny Rodriguez\, Outreach Manager – Illinois Commission on Equity and Inclusion \nThe BEP/VBP program promotes the economic development of businesses owned and operated by minorities\, women\, people with disabilities\, veterans\, and service-disabled veterans and supports their participation in the State’s overall procurement process as both prime and subcontractors.  State agencies and universities have a goal to buy at least 30% of goods and services from BEP certified Businesses and at least 3% of their procurement budgets with certified veteran owned (VBP) businesses.  Please join us as we discuss the requirements and process to obtain this certification. \nDate: Tuesday\, February 18\, 2025\nTime: 2-3 PM \nRegister: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_D01q9x5kSr61lHui2Q9Z4Q \n*After registering\, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting. \nPLEASE NOTE: this webinar will be recorded and may be shared publicly. By registering for this webinar\, you understand that your questions or comments shared during the webinar will be recorded and shared in a public domain.
URL:https://cusbdc.org/event/illinois-apex-accelerator-webinar-certification-series-part-3-state-of-illinois-business-enterprise-veteran-business-programs-certifications/
LOCATION:Webinar
CATEGORIES:APEX,Certification Series
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250204T140000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250204T150000
DTSTAMP:20260722T212502
CREATED:20250122T152343Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250122T152343Z
UID:10000216-1738677600-1738681200@cusbdc.org
SUMMARY:Illinois APEX Accelerator Webinar: Certification Series Part 2 - SBA Small Business Certifications
DESCRIPTION:This session is part 2 of a 4-part series. \nPresented by Keli Krueger-Huhra\, Director – Illinois APEX Accelerator at Champaign County EDC \nThis course provides an in-depth review of the Small Business Administration (SBA) certifications designated for small businesses pursuing opportunities in the federal government marketplace. In this webinar you will learn the specifics of how to qualify a business for Small Business Self Certification and a Small Disadvantaged Business (SDB).  In addition\, we will introduce the SBA’s new unified certification website\, MySBA Certifications portal and the process and requirements for application in the 8(a) Business Development Program\, Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB)\, Veteran-Owned Small Business (VOSB)\, Historically Underutilized Business Zones (HUBZone)\, Woman-Owned Small Business (WOSB)\, and Economic Disadvantaged Woman-Owned Small Business (EDWOSB).  Take advantage of this program to gain the confidence to apply for certification. \nDate: Tuesday\, February 4\, 2025\nTime: 2-3 PM \nRegister: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_okeXpwM4QV-hrhYsaL-fMg \n*After registering\, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting. \nPLEASE NOTE: this webinar will be recorded and may be shared publicly. By registering for this webinar\, you understand that your questions or comments shared during the webinar will be recorded and shared in a public domain.
URL:https://cusbdc.org/event/illinois-apex-accelerator-webinar-certification-series-part-2-sba-small-business-certifications/
LOCATION:Webinar
CATEGORIES:APEX,Certification Series
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250128T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250128T110000
DTSTAMP:20260722T212502
CREATED:20241213T165450Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241216T163122Z
UID:10000208-1738058400-1738062000@cusbdc.org
SUMMARY:Illinois APEX Accelerator Webinar: Deconstructing the RFQ/RFP Solicitation
DESCRIPTION:Presented by Keli Krueger-Huhra\, Director – Illinois APEX Accelerator at Champaign County EDC \nIt can seem overwhelming to find a federal government solicitation you’re interested in but first need to understand what it would take to bid on this opportunity. This is our tax dollars at work\, so it’s necessary for municipal\, state\, and federal contracts to use a transparent process to keep track of what\, where and how our money is being spent. This webinar will provide an understanding of the common parts of a solicitation document to properly prepare a bid. Our objective is to make working with challenging government bid documents seem more reasonable by allowing you to familiarize yourself with the usual sections and lingo involved in the procurement procedure.  At the end of the webinar\, you’ll understand where to find the government’s requirement in a bid document. \nA second session will follow in March on How to Respond to an RFP/RFQ. \nDate: Tuesday\, January 28\, 2025\nTime: 10-11 AM \nRegister: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_D9L53lqgTRmGdIZcjGonMQ\n*After registering\, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting. \nPLEASE NOTE: this webinar will be recorded and may be shared publicly. By registering for this webinar\, you understand that your questions or comments shared during the webinar will be recorded and shared in a public domain.
URL:https://cusbdc.org/event/illinois-apex-accelerator-webinar-deconstructing-the-rfq-rfp-solicitation/
LOCATION:Webinar
CATEGORIES:APEX
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250117T140000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250117T150000
DTSTAMP:20260722T212502
CREATED:20241213T163838Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241216T163138Z
UID:10000207-1737122400-1737126000@cusbdc.org
SUMMARY:Illinois APEX Accelerator Webinar: Certification Series Part 1 - Why Certify?
DESCRIPTION:This session is part 1 of a 4-part series. \nPresented by Keli Krueger-Huhra\, Director – Illinois APEX Accelerator at Champaign County EDC \nSocioeconomic contracting programs can be a boon for small businesses. Whether as an 8(a) Program participant\, a service-disabled veteran-owned small business\, a woman-owned small business\, or a HUBZone company\, or State of Illinois Business Enterprise Program\, small businesses can take advantage of set-aside and sole source contract opportunities. \nWhen pursuing federal contract opportunities\, it’s important for small businesses to take advantage of every benefit available to them. Learning about and leveraging socioeconomic programs is a great tool to increase your business’s competitiveness. \nJoin us as we present an overview of the available certifications and benefits available to participants.  Three additional sessions will be available with details specific to the state and federal certifications discussed in this webinar. \nDate: Friday\, January 17\, 2025\nTime: 2-3 PM \nRegister: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_GcALFpLKSeu5EIY445utgg\n*After registering\, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting. \nPLEASE NOTE: this webinar will be recorded and may be shared publicly. By registering for this webinar\, you understand that your questions or comments shared during the webinar will be recorded and shared in a public domain.
URL:https://cusbdc.org/event/illinois-apex-accelerator-webinar-certification-series-part-1-why-certify/
LOCATION:Webinar
CATEGORIES:APEX,Certification Series
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250107T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250107T110000
DTSTAMP:20260722T212502
CREATED:20241118T141153Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241118T141153Z
UID:10000185-1736244000-1736247600@cusbdc.org
SUMMARY:Illinois APEX Accelerator Webinar: Start Now in Government Contracting Series Part 2 – Develop Your Government Market Plan:  Building Relationships with Your Target Agencies & Allies
DESCRIPTION:This session is part 2 of a 3-part series. \nPresented by Keli Krueger-Huhra\, Director – Illinois APEX Accelerator at Champaign County EDC \nBuilding a reputation as an expert in your industry\, building relationships with potential customers and partners\, and getting face time at industry events or meetings are as vital in government business as they are in private sector sales.  However\, due to government acquisition regulations\, it is critical to establish relationships and build trust long before a solicitation is released. In this session\, we’ll explore the pivotal role that marketing plays in winning government procurement opportunities.  We’ll delve into the resources available for small businesses to connect with their target agencies\, such as agency OSDBUs\, SBA PCRs\, SBLOs\, and other allies who advocate for small businesses.  We’ll look at marketing tools such as the Dynamic Small Business Search to enhance your company’s visibility to agencies and primes. You’ll also learn to find and prepare for networking and matchmaking events.  Don’t miss this opportunity to elevate your marketing game in the procurement landscape. \nDate: Tuesday\, January 7\, 2025\nTime: 10-11 AM \nRegister: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_OzVugfqjRBOU0g31aeR-tQ\n*After registering\, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting. \nPLEASE NOTE: this webinar will be recorded and may be shared publicly. By registering for this webinar\, you understand that your questions or comments shared during the webinar will be recorded and shared in a public domain.
URL:https://cusbdc.org/event/illinois-apex-accelerator-webinar-start-now-in-government-contracting-series-part-2-develop-your-government-market-plan-building-relationships-with-your-target-agencies-allies/
LOCATION:Webinar
CATEGORIES:APEX
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20241217T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20241217T110000
DTSTAMP:20260722T212502
CREATED:20241118T140434Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241118T140434Z
UID:10000184-1734429600-1734433200@cusbdc.org
SUMMARY:Illinois APEX Accelerator Webinar: Start Now in Government Contracting Series Part 1 – Conducting Market Research
DESCRIPTION:This session is part 1 of a 3-part series. \nPresented by Keli Krueger-Huhra\, Director – Illinois APEX Accelerator at Champaign County EDC \nWhat do we find when we do Market Research?  Propensity!  In other words: \n\nWho buys what you sell?\nHow do they buy it?\nHow often do they buy it?\nHow much they are buying?\n\nThis is the beginning of the journey to determine if government contracting is a good fit for your business.  In the first of our 3-part series\, we will help you decide whether you can compete based on what the marketplace tells you.  You’ll learn how to effectively use available resources to perform research for past awards\, current agency opportunities\, and forecasts to determine which agencies use your product or services.  We’ll show you how to generate agency top ten lists and see how you can get questions answered by using the search criteria for informing the results. \nDate: Tuesday\, December 17\, 2024\nTime: 10-11 AM \nRegister: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_BH9YFo72Th-waqzFB-GlbA\n*After registering\, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting. \nPLEASE NOTE: this webinar will be recorded and may be shared publicly. By registering for this webinar\, you understand that your questions or comments shared during the webinar will be recorded and shared in a public domain.
URL:https://cusbdc.org/event/illinois-apex-accelerator-webinar-start-now-in-government-contracting-series-part-1-conducting-market-research/
LOCATION:Webinar
CATEGORIES:APEX
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20241126T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20241126T110000
DTSTAMP:20260722T212502
CREATED:20241029T141016Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250127T174234Z
UID:10000183-1732615200-1732618800@cusbdc.org
SUMMARY:Illinois APEX Accelerator Webinar: What is an APEX Accelerator Center & how can it help my business?
DESCRIPTION:Presented by Keli Krueger-Huhra – Director\, Illinois APEX Accelerator at Champaign County EDC \nFor nearly 40 years\, the Illinois APEX Accelerator professionals have been providing businesses the guidance they need to sell their goods and services to local\, state\, and federal government agencies. Keli Krueger-Huhra\, the inaugural Director for the Illinois APEX Accelerator Center at Champaign County EDC\, will discuss how businesses can leverage services provided through the Illinois APEX Accelerator to prepare for and secure government contracts successfully\, obtain various business certifications\, and more. \nTopics covered: \n\nIntroduction to the Illinois APEX Accelerator at Champaign County EDC\nGeneral Overview of Government Contracting\nBrief discussion of Small Business Certifications\nIdentifying Your Agency Customers\nMarketing to Government Agencies\nFinding State of Illinois agency requirements\n\nDate: Tuesday\, November 26\, 2024\nTime: 10-11 AM \nRegister: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_w9pCZuCEQAiwU7Vd6UsIdQ \n*After registering\, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting. \nPLEASE NOTE: This webinar will be recorded and may be shared publicly. By registering for this webinar\, you understand that your questions or comments shared during the webinar will be recorded and shared in a public domain.
URL:https://cusbdc.org/event/illinois-apex-accelerator-webinar-what-is-an-apex-accelerator-center-how-can-it-help-my-business/
LOCATION:Webinar
CATEGORIES:APEX,Illinois APEX Accelerator Services
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20241112T140000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20241112T150000
DTSTAMP:20260722T212502
CREATED:20241029T140350Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250127T174229Z
UID:10000182-1731420000-1731423600@cusbdc.org
SUMMARY:Illinois APEX Accelerator Webinar: Veteran Business Resources
DESCRIPTION:Celebrating National Veterans Small Business Week (November 11-15\, 2024) \nPresented by Keith S Murphy – Director\, Veteran Business Outreach Center (covering Illinois\, Minnesota\, and Wisconsin) \nFacilitated by Keli Krueger-Huhra – Director\, Illinois APEX Accelerator at Champaign County EDC \nNational Veterans Small Business Week is a time to celebrate and empower veteran-owned businesses in our community! This webinar\, hosted by the newly launched Illinois APEX Accelerator at Champaign County EDC\, will highlight resources available for veterans\, service members\, and military family businesses to support your success\, yielding strong economic results. \nTopics covered: \n\nServices provided through the Illinois APEX Accelerator to support government contracting opportunities\nIntroduction to the Veteran Business Outreach Center\nLearn about access to free federal surplus property and low-cost purchase of State surplus property\nVeteran-Owned Small Business Certification\n\nDate: Tuesday\, November 12\, 2024\nTime: 2-3 PM \nRegister: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_6CNfuN-bSGivHHvPOUsjJQ\n*After registering\, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting. \nPLEASE NOTE: This webinar will be recorded and may be shared publicly. By registering for this webinar\, you understand that your questions or comments shared during the webinar will be recorded and shared in a public domain. \nKeith S Murphy is a retired United States Air Force veteran who now leads the Veteran Business Outreach Center (VBOC) Program. This program is funded and administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration’s (SBA) Office of Veterans Business Development (OVBD). The VBOC program is designed to provide entrepreneurial development services such as business training\, counseling\, and resource partner referrals to transitioning Service Members\, Veterans\, National Guard/Reserve\, and Military spouses interested in starting or growing a small business.
URL:https://cusbdc.org/event/illinois-apex-accelerator-webinar-veteran-business-resources/
LOCATION:Webinar
CATEGORIES:APEX,Illinois APEX Accelerator Services
END:VEVENT
END:VCALENDAR