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Illinois Small Business Development Center (Illinois SBDC) & Illinois APEX Accelerator

Guidance for Business Growth: Illinois Small Business Development Centers provide one-on-one business consultation; assistance with business, management and marketing plans; financial assessment and guidance; in-depth business training and more. The Illinois SBDC also provides specialized services in technology, innovation and entrepreneurial development.

The Illinois APEX Accelerator serves as the premier resource for all businesses looking for government contracting technical assistance. We assist clients in the preparation and proper submission of applications, certifications, and registrations required to do business with government. We provide automated bid lead matching as well as customized one-on-one professional advising that assist clients in identifying, bidding, securing, and performing under government contracting opportunities.In addition, we connect clients to innovation and technology grants and contracts, as well as other federally funded instruments. So, if you are looking to do business with any government entity, the Illinois APEX Accelerator is the right place for you! Training and advising includes but is not limited to:

• Federal, State and local government contract laws, policies and procedures
• The DoD Mentor-Protégé Program (MPP) and similar government programs
• Government accounting system requirements and contract payments (e.g. PIEE and WAWF)
• Subcontracting requirements; both as a higher tier and sub tier
• Government Points of Entry (GPE) as applicable
• Small Business Innovative Research (SBIR) / Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR)
• Obtaining federal contract data from data repositories (e.g. SAM.gov)
• Business size and type (socioeconomic) certifications
• Contract-related risks related to Foreign Ownership, Control, and Influence (FOCI)
• Cyber Security requirements and compliance

Click here to find an SBDC or APEX Accelerator in your area.

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