JJC Unveils Entrepreneur and Business Center

Joliet Junior College announced a new name for its no-cost business advising and resources service; the Entrepreneur and Business Center, during a naming ceremony on May 13. 

JJC has over 20 years invested in assisting both entrepreneurs and businesses within the college’s seven-county district, formerly under the name Small Business Development Center at JJC. The Entrepreneur and Business Center (EBC) was chosen from a naming contest, which in partnership with the JJC Business Department received over 60 student submissions. 

“We were very excited about the level of participation we achieved by including JJC business students and faculty,” said Garry Reichert, EBC lead business advisor. “A part of our goal is to utilize all of the resources available to the campus community to enhance our ability to provide services within the area.”

The EBC offers consultations, resources, and seminars to assist entrepreneurs with the start-up or expansion of their business. Services are provided at no cost to those within the district, and include workshops and classes on small business financing acquisition, marketing strategies, technical assistance and one-on-one business advising, and more. The EBC also partners with local business organizations, including chambers of commerce, centers for economic development, workforce investment boards and other educational services. 

With the new name established, Reichert says the EBC’s focus turns to establishing a new location to serve clients. 

“The college’s City Center Campus is where we will develop our new EBC infrastructure, relocating from the JJC Main Campus. We plan to have an open Business Center for EBC clients and an Incubator Program for advanced advising needs. This will allow us to take advantage of the revitalization efforts of Joliet in progress and to showcase JJC City Center facilities as we work with entrepreneurs and small business owners throughout District 525,” said Reichert. 

The project has been selected by Congresswoman Lauren Underwood for federal Community Projects Funding (CPF). The initiative allows lawmakers to request direct funding for projects in their districts related to safety, economic growth and expanded access to healthcare. The funding, which requires final legislative approval, would support the EBC relocation and an increase in staffing and support services. 

For more information about JJC’s Entrepreneur and Business Center and to receive assistance, visit www.jjc.edu/ebc.