For help registering see the How to Register for Non-Credit Courses Guide.
The Small Business Development Center at Joliet Junior College (SBDC) is part of a statewide network of small business resource providers, collaborating with the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO), the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) and the Service Corps of Retired Executives (SCORE).
Our mission is to provide free management assistance and advice to assist emerging and existing small businesses as they develop. The center counsels nearly 600 small business and entrepreneurial clients per year by delivering up-to-date counseling, training and technical assistance in many aspects of small business management. Our clients range from start-up through existing businesses that seek ways to improve, develop or finance their organizations.
Drawing on in-house expertise, government and academic resources, and the commitment of many business service providers in the private sector, the SBDC is the preferred source for small business support in the state.
Workshops
Your Business Plan: Your Best Chance for Success (SBDC 820)
Consider all aspects of the business: target market, competition, promotion and financial projections.
Basics of Franchising (SBDC 3541)
Thinking of changing careers, recently down-sized or taking an early retirement. Learn the basics of franchising so that you can evaluate your options and make the right decision.
Understanding Basic Financial Statements (SBDC 051)
Introduction to cash flow, profit & loss and balance sheet statements, with emphasis on projecting figures for planning purposes.
Developing an Overall Marketing Strategy (SBDC 057)
Achieve your sales and marketing goals by understanding your products and services, customers, prospects and competitors.
Recordkeeping Basics for the Small Business (SBDC 030)
Recordkeeping and tax basics for the small business.
Business Succession Planning (SBDC 3501)
Learn about the important issues and the major concerns and risks involved in Business Succession Planning for the family-owned business.
Identify Your Customers and Competitors (SBDC 131)
Develop effective marketing strategies by identifying, researching and analyzing your Most Valuable Customer and your current and future competition.
Technology and the Small Business (SBDC 076)
Learn how technology can help your small business remain competitive.
Publicity and Promotion (SBDC 060/T2)
Learn how to attract customers, generate publicity and implement your marketing strategy.
Using Your Local Resources: The Electronic & Print Media (SBDC 060/TA)
Effectively evaluating and using radio, cable TV and printed materials (flyers, brochures, ads, newsletters) to advertise and promote your products and services.
Financing Your New/Existing Business (SBDC 110)
An introduction on how to plan the business, forms of capital, commercial credit and loan packaging preparation.
Protecting the Business and It’s Owner (SBDC 120)
Identifying and managing risk for both the business and it’s owner.
Starting a Consulting Business (SBDC 085)
Evaluating, pricing, promoting and networking your consulting practice.
Small Business Tax Workshop (SBDC 055)
Tax obligations, reporting requirements and the IRS.
Before You Start Your Business (SBDC 805)
Are you thinking of starting a business? This hands-on workshop provides the basics, including start-up steps, the importance of the business plan and financing options.
Entrepreneur Training Certificate Program (WBDC 001)
This 13 week program provides the practical skills, techniques and the “can do” attitude essential for successful business start-up or to strengthen an existing business. Includes 10 three-hour workshops (SBDC 820, 051, 057, 030, 131, 076, 060/T2, 110, 120, and 055), three reference books and the attendee can be accompanied by a family member or partner free-of-charge.