• Resources

  • Tools For Business Success

    Businesses of all types and sizes can access this tool on the Chamber’s website for up-to-date, reliable business advice and information. Tools for Business Success has local, state, federal and best-of-web resources to help start, grow and maintain your business.

     

    Business Advisors' Council (BAC)

    Business Advisors' Council (BAC), a group of seasoned business counselors and a resource of the Chamber, provides one-on-one consultations for small and growing businesses at no charge. Along with a dedicated chamber staff person, this group provides free, confidential business counseling to small businesses and individuals who are considering opening a business. We provide a full range of services from vetting an idea, to assisting with a business plan to cutting the ribbon at your grand opening. Chamber membership is not required. Companies that counsel through the chamber are eligible for a special chamber membership price when they are ready to open their business, should they decide to join.

     

    Illinois Investment Guide

    Illinois’ value proposition is simple, centering around lower costs, talented labor, business climate, connectivity, logistics and timing.

     

    Intersect Illinois

    Intersect Illinois is a statewide economic development entity whose goal is to drive business growth, create jobs and provide unbeatable customer service.

     

    City of Champaign Planning & Development

    This portal is intended to provide basic information on proposed, active and completed development projects, as well as planned Capital Improvement Projects within the City of Champaign's corporate limits. Projects with a construction value of $750,000 and above are reflected on the map. The project summaries contain information provided in public documents, including building permits, news articles, press releases, or project websites maintained by the owners or developers of the projects. Questions or comments should be directed to T.J. Blakeman, AICP Senior Planner for Economic Development at 217-403-8800.

     

    Small Business Development Center

    The SBDC is a great resource if you are looking to start a business. The organization provides guidance, training and other important information for new and existing businesses.

     

    Financial Institutions

    Below is a list of area financial institutions in Champaign County that support the local business community. They are helpful resources when starting a new business and/or expanding your current business.

    BankChampaign, N.A. – 217.351.2870
    Central Illinois Bank – 217.355.0900
    Commerce Bank – 217.359.9790
    First Financial Bank – 217.352.6700
    First Mid Bank & Trust – 217.398.0067
    First Midwest Bank – 217.378.7639
    First State Bank – 217.239.3000
    Heartland Bank & Trust Co. – 217.359.5555
    Hickory Point Bank & Trust – 217.351.7100
    Marine Bank – 217.239.0100
    Midland States Bank – 217.974.7139
    Prairie State Bank & Trust – 217.239.7616
    Prospect Bank – 217.352.0077
    SCB Bank – 217.356.6789

     

    Area Loan Programs

    There is a variety of loan programs available for businesses, governments and organizations in Champaign County. More details can be found on the Champaign County Regional Planning Commission website.

     

    Job Bank

    Whether you are new to Champaign County and looking for a job or a business in Champaign County and looking for employees, our Job Bank is a great place to start.

     

    Trends Report

    The Trends Report is a publication designed to provide our members with information and data that can be used in their daily business decision making. The publication will be distributed to all Chamber members. The full-color report provides data about the local marketplace and demographics that can be helpful to members as they strategically plan for the future.

     

    Additional Community Resources

    https://www.urbanaillinois.us/incentives

    http://champaignil.gov/starting-your-business/

    https://www.village.rantoul.il.us/245/Business-Licenses

    https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/employer-id-numbers

    https://champaign.org/

    https://www.sba.gov/business-guide

    https://www.usa.gov/start-business

    https://home.treasury.gov/policy-issues/coronavirus/assistance-for-small-businesses