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Small Business Resources & Support

 

Rockford’s small business community is strengthened through a collaborative network of local, regional, and state partners working alongside the Think Big! to deliver meaningful guidance, resources, and hands-on support. This connected ecosystem helps entrepreneurs start, grow, and scale their businesses through technical assistance, training, mentorship, and access to essential programs and capital.

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Business First

Personalized sessions where entrepreneurs meet with regulatory stakeholders to discuss requirements to start a business in Rockford at a commercial location.

Illinois Small Business Development Center

Business guidance, training, capital advisory, and resources to help both start-up and existing small businesses.

Rockford Local Development Corporation

A service-oriented commercial lender that simplifies the loan application process as a small business champion and catalyst for community and economic development.

Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO)

DCEO has a mission to create equitable economic opportunities across the State of Illinois.

Illinois Secretary of State

Provides documents such as, incorporation documents, annual reports, and amendments for businesses.

Winnebago County Clerk

Administers “Doing Business As” or “DBA” business licenses and Certificates of Ownership. 

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THINK BIG

Resources & Support

Think Big! unified approach ensures small business owners have the tools, expertise, and relationships needed to build resilient, successful businesses.

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