Illinois Small Business Development Center at Champaign County EDC

ITC Webinar: Illinois State Trade and Export Promotion (ISTEP) Program
2025-06-03 14:00 - 15:00 (America/Chicago) | Webinar
Presented by Riccardo Navon, Trade Specialist – Europe – Office of Trade & Investment, Illinois Department of Commerce & Economic Opportunity
The Illinois Department of Commerce’s Office of Trade and Investment (OTI) administers the Illinois State Trade and Export Program (ISTEP) program which provides Illinois’ small businesses with both financial and technical assistance to increase their exports. The ISTEP program includes 5 options for Illinois’ companies to grow their export sales:

Group Trade Missions
Individual Foreign Market Sales Missions
Product Compliance
Website Localization
EXIM Bank: Export Credit Insurance

This webinar will discuss the ISTEP program, the purpose & impact of the program, and answer any questions you may have.
The webinar will be approximately 30-40 minutes of presentation time, followed by Q&A. Participants will be able to ask questions in the chat box, which will be addressed at the end of the presentation, moderated by a member of our team.
Date: Tuesday, June 3, 2025
Time: 2-3 PM
Register: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_Jxv60fG4RTaodMgAADBmxw
*After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.
PLEASE 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.
Riccardo Navon is an accomplished international trade and marketing professional with decades of experience in strategic marketing, global sales, operations, and procurement. Currently serving as an International Trade Specialist at DCEO in Chicago, he has a strong track record of driving business growth, managing international teams, and enhancing operational efficiency across diverse industries. Riccardo has held leadership roles in the private sector both in Europe and the US, contributing to business expansion, restructuring initiatives, and the successful execution of cross-border projects.

Workshop: 10 Marketing Mistakes to Avoid
2025-06-03 10:00 - 11:00 | Champaign Public Library, 200 W. Green Street, Champaign, IL, 61820, United States
This webinar qualifies for reimbursement as part of the City of Champaign New Business Grant Program. If you are an awardee of the program and attend this session, you will receive a certificate to include in your reimbursement forms to the City.
Presented by Scott Clanin – Director, Clanin Creative
Marketing missteps can cost your business time, money, and potential customers. In this session, we’ll uncover the most common mistakes businesses make – whether in branding, campaigns, websites, or social media and show you how to avoid them.
The workshop will be approximately 45 minutes of presentation time followed by Q&A.
Date: Tuesday, June 3, 2025
Time: 10-11 AM
Location: Champaign Public Library (Robeson Pavilion C) – 200 W. Green Street, Champaign, IL 61820
Register below to secure a seat (no cost to attend). All materials will be provided.
Scott Clanin is the owner and director of Clanin Creative, an independent design agency based in Champaign, Illinois. With a deep passion for marketing and a sharp creative eye, Scott leads projects that help businesses craft and communicate their unique stories. He is a strong advocate for the local community, having served on the boards of Promise Healthcare, 40 North, the Champaign Center Partnership, and more. As a certified Google professional, Scott combines his expertise in digital strategy with a commitment to innovative design, helping brands grow and thrive.
Clanin Creative is an independent design agency hailing from Champaign, Illinois, dedicated to transforming brands with standout design and compelling storytelling. Their unique approach blends strategic insight with creative skill, delivering tailored solutions that elevate brands and connect with audiences. Learn more by visiting www.clanincreative.com
This workshop is sponsored by the Illinois Small Business Development Center at Champaign County EDC and presented in collaboration with Champaign County EDC, Champaign Center Partnership, Champaign Public Library, Community Foundation of East Central Illinois, EDC of Decatur & Macon County, Experience Champaign-Urbana, New American Welcome Center of the University YMCA, Parkland College Community Education, Rantoul Area Chamber of Commerce, and University of Illinois Research Park.

2026 Open Office Hours at Champaign-Urbana Public Health District
2025-05-28 10:00 - 11:30, 2025-05-21 10:00 - 11:30, 2025-05-14 10:00 - 11:30, 2025-05-07 10:00 - 11:30, 2025-04-30 10:00 - 11:30, 2025-04-23 10:00 - 11:30 | Champaign-Urbana Public Health District, 201 W. Kenyon Road, Champaign, IL, United States
Sarah Michaels, Director of Environmental Health at CUPHD, hosts Open Office Hours every week to assist food/drink/retail establishment owners, managers, and workers with questions related to Environmental Health programs and services: https://www.c-uphd.org/environmental-health.html.
The Open Office Hours are available every Wednesday from 10-11:30 AM at CUPHD: 201 W. Kenyon Road, Champaign, IL 61820.
No pre-registration is required.

2025 Open Office Hours at Champaign-Urbana Public Health District
2025-05-28 10:00 - 11:30, 2025-05-21 10:00 - 11:30, 2025-05-14 10:00 - 11:30, 2025-05-07 10:00 - 11:30, 2025-04-30 10:00 - 11:30, 2025-04-23 10:00 - 11:30 | Champaign-Urbana Public Health District, 201 W. Kenyon Road, Champaign, IL, United States

Webinar: Understanding Financial Statements
2025-05-23 10:00 | Webinar
This webinar qualifies for reimbursement as part of the City of Champaign New Business Grant Program. If you are an awardee of the program and attend this session, you will receive a certificate to include in your reimbursement forms to the City.
Presented by Todd Davis – Partner, M|H
Properly understanding your financial statements enables better decision-making now and in the future, as you gain a clear picture of your company’s health and performance. Whether it’s your balance sheet, income statement, or statement of cash flows, each serves a purpose and is important for different reasons. In this webinar, we will discuss the importance of each and some key metrics to keep an eye on.
Date: Friday, May 23, 2025
Time: 10-11 AM
Register: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_9uypxdN4TW2tEV2V2JgGAA
*After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.
PLEASE 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.
Todd is a partner with M|H, which has offices in Champaign, Peoria, and, most recently, Danville. Before joining M|H in 2023, Todd served eight years as the Chief Accounting Officer at Hallador Energy Company, where he played a pivotal role in managing financial operations and ensuring SEC and tax compliance. He also served as a Director and Senior Manager for 16 years at a large national accounting firm. Todd’s expertise in overseeing accounting operations and compliance is utilized to manage our Business Advisory Services (BAS) and Virtual Chief Financial Officer (VCFO) services.

Webinar: Legal Business Entity Formation 101 - Choosing the Right Structure for Your Business
2025-05-21 10:00 - 11:00 | Webinar
This webinar qualifies for reimbursement as part of the City of Champaign New Business Grant Program. If you are an awardee of the program and attend this session, you will receive a certificate to include in your reimbursement forms to the City.
Presented by Alan Singleton, President – Singleton Law Firm
Thinking about starting a business or re-evaluating your current structure? Join us and local attorney, Alan Singleton, for a webinar to learn the fundamentals of legal business entity selection and formation. This session will explore the pros and cons of various structures, including sole proprietorships, partnerships, LLCs, S corporations and C corporations. Social purpose organizations and not for profits will also receive mention. Discover how the right entity can impact your taxes, liability, and growth potential, and gain the knowledge you need to make informed decisions for your business’s success. This session is for entrepreneurs and small business owners at any stage.
Date: Wednesday, May 21, 2025
Time: 10-11 AM
Register: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_cakwSrF4QDermzkEWkMjTg
*After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.
PLEASE 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.
Alan is the President of Singleton Law Firm. He has more than 25 years of experience working with entrepreneurs to develop legal solutions for companies at all stages of development and build their international intellectual property portfolios. Clients appreciate Alan’s ability to see the big picture and give comprehensive advice with both legal and business considerations in mind.
Alan’s practice is focused on corporate formation and transactions (including angel / venture capital investment rounds and mergers and acquisitions), intellectual property (technology licensing, trademark, and patent matters), and real estate

Illinois APEX Accelerator Webinar: Deconstructing the RFQ/RFP Solicitation
2025-05-20 10:00 - 11:00 | IL
Presented by Keli Krueger-Huhra, Director – Illinois APEX Accelerator at Champaign County EDC
It 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.
Date: Tuesday, May 20, 2025
Time: 10-11 AM
Register: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_cwvWAkKkSRirwZTczPj1gA
*After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.
PLEASE 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.

Illinois APEX Accelerator Webinar: Start Now in Government Contracting Series Part 3 – Capability Statements
2025-05-13 14:00 - 15:00 | Webinar
This session is part 3 of a 3-part series.
Presented by Keli Krueger-Huhra, Director – Illinois APEX Accelerator at Champaign County EDC
In this session, we will uncover the five essential sections that every powerful Capabilities Statement needs to include:

Core Competencies
Differentiators
Past Performance
Company Data
Contact Information

You’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.
Date: Tuesday, May 13, 2025
Time: 2-3 PM
Register: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_hBkfsQZLTHSmfSMNECkteg
*After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.
PLEASE 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.

SBDC Workshop: Writing a Business Plan
2025-05-09 10:00 - 11:00 | Illinois Small Business Development Center, 1817 S. Neil Street, Suite 100, Champaign, IL, 61820, United States
Celebrating National Small Business Week – May 4-10, 2025
Presented by Madeleine Wolske, Director – Illinois Small Business Development Center at Champaign County EDC
Why do you need a business plan? It’s your playbook!
In this workshop, we will discuss the fundamentals of business planning. Developing your business plan should be a process, not just a task, evolving with your business.
Topics covered will include:

Clarifying Your Business Plan’s Purpose and Objectives
Understanding Your Business Plan Needs
Breaking Down the Components of a Business Plan
Selecting the Right Tools for Business Plan Development

Date: Friday, May 9, 2025
Time: 10-11 AM
Location: Illinois Small Business Development Center at Champaign County EDC, 1817 S. Neil Street, Suite 100, Champaign, IL 61820
Registration: No cost to attend, registration required to secure a spot. Materials will be provided. RSVP below.

2025 Open Office Hours at Champaign Public Library
2025-05-08 12:00 - 15:00 | Champaign Public Library, 200 W. Green Street, Champaign, IL, 61820, United States
SBDC Director, Madeleine Wolske, will hold open office hours at Launch (at Champaign Public Library) on the 2nd Thursday of each month from 12 – 3 PM.
2025 dates:

March 13
April 10*
May 8
June 12
July 10
August 14*
September 11
October 9*
November 13
December 11*

* denotes dates that Madeleine will be joined by Sarah Michaels, Director of Environmental Health at CUPHD, to assist food/drink/retail establishment owners, managers, and workers with questions related to Environmental Health programs and services: https://www.c-uphd.org/environmental-health.html.
SBDC services are offered at no cost & are completely confidential. For those interested in attending the Office Hours and have not worked with the SBDC before, please register as a client prior to your meeting: https://ilsbdc.ecenterdirect.com/signup?centerid=118
Launch at the Library business services include a walk-in coworking space, seminars, meeting rooms, and resources to help start, manage, and grow your business. Visit champaign.org/launch for more information.

Webinar: Unlock Fresh Insights with Gies Business Students
2025-05-08 10:00 - 11:00 | Webinar
Celebrating National Small Business Week — May 4-10, 2025
Presented by Salvo Rodriquez — Associate Director, Business Development, Magelli Office of Experiential Learning
Join us for an exclusive webinar to learn how the Magelli Office of Experiential Learning at Gies College of Business can help solve real business challenges through the Action Learning Program—now sourcing projects for the Fall 2025 semester!
What is offered:
Teams of six Gies students, guided by expert faculty, will tackle your business problem and provide custom, data-driven recommendations—at no cost to you!
How they help:

Optimizing marketing strategies & brand positioning
Financial modeling & revenue growth analysis
Data analytics & AI-driven insights
Go-to-market strategy & competitive positioning
Navigating post-pandemic business challenges

Companies are required to commit one hour per week to meet with the student team, provide insights, and offer feedback.
Whether you’re looking to analyze big data, adapt to AI, or refine your business model, the Gies students are ready to bring fresh perspectives and innovative solutions to your company.
The webinar will be approximately 30-40 minutes of presentation time, followed by Q&A. Participants will be able to ask questions in the chatbox, which will be addressed at the end of the presentation, moderated by a member of our team.
Date: Thursday, May 8, 2025
Time: 10-11 AM
Register: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_Hcqi7HqBQbWw0J_l63N2-w
*After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.
PLEASE 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.
About Salvo Rodriquez: Born and raised in Champaign, Salvo is an alumnus of Parkland College, Eastern Illinois University, and most recently an MBA graduate from the University of Illinois (Gies ’20). Salvo’s career spans over 20 years in client relations, ranging from small businesses to nonprofits, and now includes the University of Illinois. Before joining the College of Business in August 2023, he served as the Director of Strategic Partnerships at United Way of Champaign County. In this role, he oversaw all workplace giving campaigns and developed innovative ways to collaborate with local businesses, municipalities, and individual donors through volunteerism. During his tenure at United Way, he was recognized by Champaign West Rotary as the Rookie of the Year and received a Community Impact Award from the Junior League of Champaign Urbana. In 2019, he was honored with the Man of the Year Award as part of Central Illinois Business’s 40 Under 40. Since joining Gies College of Business as the Associate Director for the Magelli Office of Experiential Learning, he has overseen efforts to source over 300 projects each academic year, providing Gies Business students with real-world experience through in-class business consulting projects from alumni nationwide and companies ranging from nonprofits to Fortune 500s across various industries.

SBDC Webinar: City of Champaign Diversity Advancement Program (CDAP)
2025-05-07 10:00 - 11:00 | Webinar
Celebrating National Small Business Week — May 4-10, 2025
The City of Champaign Diversity Advancement Program (CDAP) encourages City departments, contractors, and other vendors doing business with the City to increase the amount of goods and services provided by local businesses owned by minorities, women, and other socially and economically disadvantaged groups.
The objectives of the CDAP program are to strengthen the use of businesses owned by women, racial/ethnic minorities, and other identified socially disadvantaged groups as defined in City purchasing and contracting policies, and to build capacity for these businesses through mentoring and training, and to develop and sustain a diverse pool of qualified businesses used by the City of Champaign. CDAP program requirements apply to all City purchases and are part of the City’s purchasing policies.
Adonis Fuller, the City of Champaign’s Purchasing / Compliance Specialist, and Mikal Washington, Community Relations Specialist, will provide an overview of the program, including how to become a CDAP vendor.
The webinar will be approximately 30-40 minutes of presentation time, followed by Q&A. Participants will be able to ask questions in the chatbox, which will be addressed at the end of the presentation, moderated by a member of our team.
Date: Wednesday, May 7, 2025
Time: 10-11 AM
Register: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_2ESUcr72SjGuo48o1956Yg
*After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.
PLEASE 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.

Workshop: Mastering Social Media Giveaways
2025-05-06 14:00 - 15:00 | Champaign Public Library, 200 W. Green Street, Champaign, IL, 61820, United States
This webinar qualifies for reimbursement as part of the City of Champaign New Business Grant Program. If you are an awardee of the program and attend this session, you will receive a certificate to include in your reimbursement forms to the City.
Celebrating National Small Business Week – May 4-10, 2025
Presented by Scott Clanin – Director, Clanin Creative
Giveaways can be a powerful way to grow your audience, boost engagement, and increase brand awareness, but only if they’re done right. In this workshop, we’ll break down best practices for running social media contests, common mistakes to avoid, and creative giveaway ideas that align with your brand. Learn how to navigate platform rules, maximize participation, and ensure your giveaway drives real results.
The workshop will be approximately 45 minutes of presentation time followed by Q&A.
Date: Tuesday, May 6, 2025
Time: 2-3 PM
Location: Champaign Public Library (Robeson Pavilion A/B) – 200 W. Green Street, Champaign, IL 61820
Register below to secure a seat (no cost to attend). All materials will be provided.
Scott Clanin is the owner and director of Clanin Creative, an independent design agency based in Champaign, Illinois. With a deep passion for marketing and a sharp creative eye, Scott leads projects that help businesses craft and communicate their unique stories. He is a strong advocate for the local community, having served on the boards of Promise Healthcare, 40 North, the Champaign Center Partnership, and more. As a certified Google professional, Scott combines his expertise in digital strategy with a commitment to innovative design, helping brands grow and thrive.
Clanin Creative is an independent design agency hailing from Champaign, Illinois, dedicated to transforming brands with standout design and compelling storytelling. Their unique approach blends strategic insight with creative skill, delivering tailored solutions that elevate brands and connect with audiences. Learn more by visiting www.clanincreative.com
This workshop is sponsored by the Illinois Small Business Development Center at Champaign County EDC and presented in collaboration with Champaign County EDC, Champaign Center Partnership, Champaign Public Library, Community Foundation of East Central Illinois, EDC of Decatur & Macon County, Experience Champaign-Urbana, New American Welcome Center of the University YMCA, Parkland College Community Education, Rantoul Area Chamber of Commerce, and University of Illinois Research Park.

SBDC Workshop: Starting Your Business in Illinois
2025-05-05 14:00 - 16:00 | Illinois Small Business Development Center, 1817 S. Neil Street, Suite 100, Champaign, IL, 61820, United States
Celebrating National Small Business Week – May 4-10, 2025
Presented by Madeleine Wolske, Director – Illinois Small Business Development Center at Champaign County EDC
Thinking about starting a business in Illinois? This workshop helps aspiring entrepreneurs understand the opportunities and requirements for starting their business. You’ll be taken step-by-step through a variety of topics and can ask questions.
Topics covered:

Introduction to the Illinois Small Business Development Center at Champaign County EDC
Feasibility Checklist
Creating a Lean Business Plan
Identifying Your Customers
Sources of Funding, including Financing and Grant Options
Business Formation and Registration

Date: Monday, May 5, 2025
Time: 2-4 PM
Location: Illinois Small Business Development Center at Champaign County EDC, 1817 S. Neil Street, Suite 100, Champaign, IL 61820
Registration: No cost to attend, registration required to secure a spot. Materials will be provided. RSVP below.

Illinois APEX Accelerator Webinar: Start Now in Government Contracting Series Part 2 – Develop Your Government Market Plan: Building Relationships with Your Target Agencies & Allies
2025-05-02 10:00 - 11:00 | Webinar
Presented by Keli Krueger-Huhra, Director – Illinois APEX Accelerator at Champaign County EDC
Building 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.
Date: Friday, May 2, 2025
Time: 10-11 AM
Register: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_-u7I9ltrSduTxRf1trSTWQ
*After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.
PLEASE 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.

Workshop: Email Marketing Essentials
2025-04-24 14:00 - 15:00 | Champaign Public Library, 200 W. Green Street, Champaign, IL, 61820, United States
This webinar qualifies for reimbursement as part of the City of Champaign New Business Grant Program. If you are an awardee of the program and attend this session, you will receive a certificate to include in your reimbursement forms to the City.
Presented by Scott Clanin – Director, Clanin Creative
You may have heard the importance of email marketing, but where should you start? In this workshop, we will discuss popular email marketing platforms, creative ways to grow your list, opt-in forms, email design, open rates, and many other best practices to help you get started.
The workshop will be approximately 45 minutes of presentation time followed by Q&A.
Date: Thursday, April 24, 2025
Time: 2-3 PM
Location: Champaign Public Library (Robeson Pavilion A/B) – 200 W. Green Street, Champaign, IL 61820
Register below to secure a seat (no cost to attend). All materials will be provided.
Scott Clanin is the owner and director of Clanin Creative, an independent design agency based in Champaign, Illinois. With a deep passion for marketing and a sharp creative eye, Scott leads projects that help businesses craft and communicate their unique stories. He is a strong advocate for the local community, having served on the boards of Promise Healthcare, 40 North, the Champaign Center Partnership, and more. As a certified Google professional, Scott combines his expertise in digital strategy with a commitment to innovative design, helping brands grow and thrive.
Clanin Creative is an independent design agency hailing from Champaign, Illinois, dedicated to transforming brands with standout design and compelling storytelling. Their unique approach blends strategic insight with creative skill, delivering tailored solutions that elevate brands and connect with audiences. Learn more by visiting www.clanincreative.com
This workshop is sponsored by the Illinois Small Business Development Center at Champaign County EDC and presented in collaboration with Champaign County EDC, Champaign Center Partnership, Champaign Public Library, Community Foundation of East Central Illinois, EDC of Decatur & Macon County, Experience Champaign-Urbana, New American Welcome Center of the University YMCA, Parkland College Community Education, Rantoul Area Chamber of Commerce, and University of Illinois Research Park.

Webinar: Using Intellectual Property to Maximize Business Value - Protecting Innovations and Avoiding Landmines
2025-04-24 10:00 - 11:00 | Webinar
This webinar qualifies for reimbursement as part of the City of Champaign New Business Grant Program. If you are an awardee of the program and attend this session, you will receive a certificate to include in your reimbursement forms to the City.
Presented by Alan Singleton, President – Singleton Law Firm
Are you ready to safeguard some of your business’s most valuable assets—your innovations and creations? Join us and local attorney, Alan Singleton, for a webinar on the essentials of intellectual property (IP) for small business owners. This session will introduce trademarks, copyrights, patents, and trade secrets—why they matter and how to leverage them strategically. Gain insights on when and how to use IP tools to maximize value for your business. Ideal for entrepreneurs, startups, and established businesses alike!
Date: Thursday, April 24, 2025
Time: 10-11 AM
Register: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_SgK9vCdJTM-3qQmsCZveJg
*After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.
PLEASE 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.
Alan is the President of Singleton Law Firm. He has more than 25 years of experience working with entrepreneurs to develop legal solutions for companies at all stages of development and build their international intellectual property portfolios. Clients appreciate Alan’s ability to see the big picture and give comprehensive advice with both legal and business considerations in mind.
Alan’s practice is focused on corporate formation and transactions (including angel / venture capital investment rounds and mergers and acquisitions), intellectual property (technology licensing, trademark, and patent matters), and real estate

SBDC Workshop: Starting Your Business in Illinois
2025-04-23 14:00 - 16:00 | IL
Presented by Madeleine Wolske, Director – Illinois Small Business Development Center at Champaign County EDC
Thinking about starting a business in Illinois? This workshop helps aspiring entrepreneurs understand the opportunities and requirements for starting their business. You’ll be taken step-by-step through a variety of topics and can ask questions.
Topics covered:

Introduction to the Illinois Small Business Development Center at Champaign County EDC
Feasibility Checklist
Creating a Lean Business Plan
Identifying Your Customers
Sources of Funding, including Financing and Grant Options
Business Formation and Registration

Date: Wednesday, April 23, 2025
Time: 2-4 PM
Location: Illinois Small Business Development Center at Champaign County EDC, 1817 S. Neil Street, Suite 100, Champaign, IL 61820
Registration: No cost to attend, registration required to secure a spot. Materials will be provided. RSVP below.

Illinois APEX Accelerator Webinar: Mentor / Protégé Programs
2025-04-22 14:00 - 15:00 | Webinar
Presented by Keli Krueger-Huhra, Director – Illinois APEX Accelerator at Champaign County EDC
Did 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.
Date: Tuesday, April 22, 2025
Time: 2-3 PM
Register: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_VAK3yci7TKieTVeokG4DlA
*After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.
PLEASE 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.

Webinar: Best Accounting Practices for Your Small Business
2025-04-21 14:00 - 15:00 | Webinar
This webinar qualifies for reimbursement as part of the City of Champaign New Business Grant Program. If you are an awardee of the program and attend this session, you will receive a certificate to include in your reimbursement forms to the City.
Presented by Todd Davis – Partner, M|H
Accurate financial information is essential for running a successful business. Discipline and a few best practices can help remove much of the uncertainty in your business operations and give you the tools to make more informed business decisions.
In this interactive webinar, you will learn some of the best practices we see in successful small businesses. These practices won’t necessarily guarantee success, but they will be a big step in getting you there.
Date: Monday, April 21, 2025
Time: 2-3 PM
Register: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_CksNc_u_RayYIHKTgNb7lA
*After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.
PLEASE 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.
Todd is a partner with M|H, which has offices in Champaign, Peoria, and, most recently, Danville. Before joining M|H in 2023, Todd served eight years as the Chief Accounting Officer at Hallador Energy Company, where he played a pivotal role in managing financial operations and ensuring SEC and tax compliance. He also served as a Director and Senior Manager for 16 years at a large national accounting firm. Todd’s expertise overseeing accounting operations and compliance is utilized to oversee our Business Advisory Services (BAS) and Virtual Chief Financial Officer (VCFO) services.
