SIU Research Park
The SIU Research Park is a non-profit corporation affiliated with Southern Illinois University Carbondale (SIU Carbondale) promoting technology and knowledge-based enterprise development within the Park and southern Illinois. It is the primary innovation and technology space in the southern third of Illinois and is a member of the Association of University Research Parks (AURP). As the University’s arm for technology transfer and research spin-outs, the Research Park is the local manifestation of the global innovation system. Its strength and success are directly tied to SIU’s classification as a Carnegie Doctoral Universities: Higher Research Activity institution, ranked among the top four percent of higher education research institutions in the United States.
SIU Small Business Development Center
Of service to the region for more than 30 years, The Illinois Small Business Development Center (SBDC) at SIU provides no-cost, confidential, one-on-one business advising services, training opportunities, and business resources for small businesses in Southern Illinois. Funded by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity, and Southern Illinois University, services are available not only for SIU students and staff, but for anyone starting, running, or moving a business to southern Illinois.
Champion Community Investments
Champion Community Investments is one of Southern Illinois leading providers of capital to small businesses. Working closely with our partnering federal agencies, regional Small Business Development Centers, Entrepreneurship Centers, local economic developers, and commercial lenders, CCI helps ensure that sufficient capital is available to fuel business growth and job creation.
https://www.ccinvestments.org/
Carbondale Chamber of Commerce
The Carbondale Chamber of Commerce is an association of businesses in the community and region that serve as cheerleaders and connectors for the Carbondale area and its business sector. The Carbondale Chamber represents more than 400 businesses and organizations and strive to support them through advocacy, promotion, education and other activities.
https://www.carbondalechamber.com/
Local Banks
Jackson County is home to multiple local banks that have significant lending power and are committed to supporting local businesses and the Southern Illinois community.
First Southern Bank
https://www.firstsouthernbank.net/
First Mid Bank and Trust
https://www.firstmid.com/location/carbondale/