Chamber Working to Insure New and Expanding Businesses Can Tap Into Expertise

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Published on December 5 2016 11:35 am
Last Updated on December 5 2016 1:32 pm
Written by Greg Sapp

The lack of a state budget continues to affect the amount of resources available to Illinoisans. That includes those who'd like to start a business or expand their existing operation.

The Small Business Resource Centers have closed across Illinois, including one that had been housed at the offices of the Effingham County Chamber of Commerce. 

That, though, led to efforts to establish the Chamber's own Business Outreach Center. Dan Woods of Woods Advisors is working with Chamber President and CEO Norma Lansing to establish the Center. They are seeking those with business expertise who'd like to offer their time and talents to assist startup businesses.

Woods and Lansing shared the goals of the Outreach Center at the December Chamber First Friday Luncheon. Woods said those are to identify wants and clarify needs, attract mentors and attract candidates.

Woods noted that two-thirds of start-up businesses fail within 18 months. He said, in large measure, that's due to lack of experience or lack of knowledge by the business operators. He suggested local businesspeople could provide much of the expertise that would provide knowledge and assist with the experience.

Those who'd like to help as a resource are invited to contact the Chamber at 342-4147 or to visit the Chamber at www.effinghamcountychamber.com