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Community Corner

Charting a New Direction

Presented by: Jan Bauer, Director, Small Business Development & International trade Center – College of Lake County


    Looking for your next opportunity requires an open mind and the willingness to explore all options.  Have an idea for a startup?  Thinking about starting a business?  Looking to expand your current business?  Running a small business is exciting, but it can also be scary and confusing.  Going it alone is not a good solution.  Join Jan Bauer as she maps out the 7 keys of how to start and grow a strong business.  And, learn about the vast array of services and resources offered by the Small Business Development Center.  Where will your next customer come from?  Did you know 95% of consumers live outside of the United States?  Find your path to success.


     Since 2008 Jan has lead the strategic development of this multi-channel grant program, bringing people and resources together to educate and stimulate economic growth.  The Center increased clientele by 149% under her leadership.  Recently the Center added International Trade Center to their title.

Find out what's happening in Lake Forest-Lake Bluffwith free, real-time updates from Patch.


     The Illinois Small Business Development Center (SBDC) is grant-funded to provide free expert advice to grow and expand Lake County small businesses.  Services include:



  • One-on-one consulting by noted experts

  •  Assistance in developing business plans

  •  Support in securing loans

  •  Referrals to small business service providers

  •  Access to our small business resource library

  •  Interactive workshops

  •  Aid in market research

  • Identify strategic partners


Free for CRC Members; $10 for non-members

Find out what's happening in Lake Forest-Lake Bluffwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

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