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Director Terry Prince

Entrepreneurship

​As a veteran, you offer a unique set of skills and experiences that are transferable to many industries. Get on-the-job experience through the many entrepreneurships available to you.

Advantage Illinois - Enhancing Small Business Access to Capital

The State of Illinois is committed to improving business access to capital and assisting companies in expand their workforce capacity or start-up activity. Supported by $78 million from the federal State Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI).
Illinois’ Small Business Development Centers (SBDCs)

The Illinois Small Business Development Center (SBDC) Network assists pre-venture entrepreneurs with launching their new business ventures and provides guidance to existing businesses to help them grow and expand.
Mission: Veteran Entrepreneurship

Veteran Entrepreneurship is an IDVA and CMS jointly-led initiative (originally launched in June 2012) that brings together pertinent government agencies, educational institutions, trade associations, business sector experts, and employers.
Small Business Set-Aside Program (SBSP)

Every year the State of Illinois sets aside millions of dollars for contracts exclusively with small businesses. In 2011, Illinois awarded nearly $57 million to small firms through SBSP.
State Procurement Benefits for Veteran-Owned

Through the Illinois Veterans Business Program (IVBP), administered by the Illinois Department of Central Management Services, state agencies and universities are encouraged to spend at least 3% of their procurement budgets with certified.
Tax Credit Programs

The State of Illinois has a broad portfolio of tax credit programs to help accelerate the growth of new and existing businesses across the state.
Veteran Entrepreneurship

Illinois Department of Veterans’ Affairs in partnership with the Illinois Department of Central Management Services provides training and outreach.