Carbondale Alerts
Carbondale Accelerator Program Applications Due Feb. 13
CARBONDALE -
Carbondale businesses can get help, funding through City of Carbondale, SIU program
by Christi Mathis
CARBONDALE, Ill. — Carbondale businesses can now apply for special funding and assistance to fast-track their businesses through the Carbondale Small Business Accelerator Program, a collaborative initiative from the City of Carbondale and the Illinois Small Business Development Center (SBDC) at Southern Illinois University Carbondale.
Selected small businesses will participate in a 10-week accountability program providing them with valuable information, tools, practical insights and mentorship to help them launch and grow their startup enterprises. At the conclusion of the program, participants who successfully complete the training will receive $1,250 in startup funding and will have the opportunity to present a “pitch” for their business to a panel of judges to earn up to $5,000 in additional funding.
Apply now
The deadline to apply is Feb. 13. Apply online. Space is limited, so request a spot soon.
The program is open to anyone age 18 or older living in or operating a business in Carbondale. They must be planning a startup business or have an existing business that is no more than 4 years old. Classes will begin Feb. 20 and wrap up with a graduation ceremony May 1.
Flexible format
Participants can choose in-person, virtual or hybrid class sessions for two hours weekly but must attend all sessions and fulfill program requirements to receive the funding. Each week will highlight a different topic, with the first hour incorporating lessons or training and the second hour dedicated to hands-on work and consultations with mentors and advisers.
For more information, email sbdc@siu.edu or call 618-536-2424. Visit the SBDC website to learn more about the numerous services it provides.
“Carbondale prides itself on providing its visitors, students, businesses and residents with a unique mix of edge and ease. It’s a cultural town, yet free of pretense, embracing the great outdoors as readily as urban sophistication. Here, we are open to new ideas, experiences and cultures, so you are encouraged to both express yourself and be yourself, in all ways. That’s Carbondale…All Ways Open…for family, fun, business, new ideas and a bright tomorrow.”
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