New Business Start Support Program
Applications Closed
The application period for The New Business Start Support Program has ended.
The SBDC New Business Start Support Program guides aspiring entrepreneurs with unregistered businesses to official business launch. Through structured weekly sessions, one-on-one advising, and hands-on compliance support, the program ensures that each client completes required registrations, conducts early business activities, and documents measurable economic impact
The Program:
- Support clients in officially starting their businesses according to SBA guidelines.
- Provide pre-start and post-start advising sessions for every participant.
- Produce measurable outcomes including capital infusion, staff changes, and success stories.
Upcoming Events and Deadlines
No events currently available. Browse our events calendar.
Application and Eligibility
- Aspiring or Early-Stage Entrepreneur
- Individuals who have a business idea, are in the early development stage, or have not yet officially started their business according to SBA guidelines.
- Existing businesses may participate if they have not yet completed all steps required for an official SBA “business start.”
- Willingness to Complete Required Registrations
Participants must be prepared to complete any required business registrations with the local, state, and/or federal government within the first three weeks of the program, such as:- Business name/DBA
- State/local business licenses
- Federal or state tax IDs
- Ready to Conduct Initial Business Activities
Participants should be willing to take early launch steps during the program, such as:- Completing a small sale
- Hiring or contracting essential help
- Applying for and/or seek capital
- Incurring legitimate business startup expenses
Expectations
Program participants must meet the following expectations:
- Devote at least 15 hours per week to working on their idea
- Attend a 2-hour, in-person session twice each week, which includes presentations, discussions, and group case studies each week, which includes presentations, discussions, and group case studies
- Participate in advisory sessions with SBDC advisors and complete weekly assessments outside of the in-person sessions
- Complete at least three advisory sessions with their advisor before the end of the program
Program Timeline
Instructional Schedule:
- Session 1: Define and Draft – Ideation and Problem Identification
- Session 2: Value Proposition and Industry Analysis
- Session 3: Continue Industry Analysis and Target Market
- Session 4: Growth Strategy and Financial Projections
- Session 5: Numbers and Narrative
- Session 6: Branding and Marketing Analysis
- Session 7: Final Business Plan Review and Revision
Small Business Development Center
The Illinois Small Business Development (SBDC) Center at the Polsky Exchange offers no-cost, one-on-one confidential business advice to pre-venture entrepreneurs and existing business owners seeking assistance with growth plans, marketing strategy, financial reviews, and more.