Champion Community Investments

08/19/2026

Finding Financing for Your Small Business — Free Workshop for Entrepreneurs
Jefferson County, IL
Thursday, August 27, 2026

Jefferson County Development Corporation (JCDC) will host a free workshop, “Finding Financing for Your Small Business,” on Thursday, August 27, 2026, from 10:00 AM–12:00 PM at the Iriti Innovation Center (Fifth Floor), 123 S. 10th Street, Mount Vernon. The workshop will be followed by a free lunch and networking session for participants.

This session is designed for aspiring entrepreneurs, startups, and current small business owners seeking guidance on funding options specific to Jefferson County. Regional community lenders, bankers, and creative financing experts will be in attendance and will present practical guidance on:
*Traditional and alternative financing options
*Preparing for business loans and funding opportunities
*Credit, collateral and lender expectations
*Local and community funding programs
*Strengthening business plans and financial projections

"Access to the right financing can turn an idea into a thriving business,” said Kathy Lively, President of Champion Community Investments and Board Member of the Jefferson County Development Corporation. “This workshop will give local entrepreneurs the tools and connections to move forward with confidence.”

The Jefferson County Development Corporation promotes the Jefferson County region as a powerful combination of strategic location, business-friendly incentives, skilled workforce, and exceptional quality of life, backed by a strong base of existing industry. Positioned at the crossroads of major interstate, rail, and air networks, the region provides unmatched access to key markets across the Midwest and beyond. Companies that choose Jefferson County gain the advantage of a supportive economic ecosystem, competitive costs, and a community invested in long-term growth and success.
Champion Community Investments (CCI) is sponsoring the workshop. Champion Community Investments (CCI) is a 501(c)3 non-profit corporation founded in 2002 and originally known as Southern Illinois Coal Belt Champion Community, Inc. CCI is dedicated to regional economic and community development by providing essential capital to start-up and existing small businesses in underserved communities.

To date, CCI has funded more than 200 loans totaling $13M+ to help local entrepreneurs start, grow, and manage their own businesses. Our mission is to ensure that sufficient capital is available to fuel business growth and job creation throughout our region.

Flexible Financing: We offer direct-to-borrower loans and can partner with commercial banks on participation loan projects, providing gap or bridge financing. We even help those who might not qualify for traditional “credit elsewhere.”

Service area in Illinois: CCI proudly serves the 12-county footprint of Franklin, Gallatin, Hamilton, Hardin, Jackson, Jefferson, Perry, Pope, Randolph, Saline, White, and Williamson.

Lunch will be provided. Space is limited; registration is required by emailing [email protected] by August 24, 2026.

Contact Robyn Russell, CCI Executive Director, for media/information at Email: [email protected] or phone 618-559-6194.

Thank you and please share with someone who may benefit from this workshop!

08/06/2026

Hey, Williamson County Businesses: FINDING FINANCING FOR YOUR SMALL BUSINESS IS COMING TO MARION!

This workshop will explain many financing opportunities to start or expand your business! You'll also have access to several commercial lenders from around your county!

Join us at no cost and find some financing!

A free workshop is being offered in Williamson County, IL, called “Finding Financing for Your Small Business Using Traditional and Alternative Funding Methods,” on Friday, August 14, 2026, from 10:00 AM–12:00 PM at the EThOs at the Citadel, in Marion, IL.

EThOs is a small business incubator, coworking spaces, training & development community, which provides many economic development training and education resources for local businesses.

This session is designed for aspiring entrepreneurs, startups, and current small business owners seeking guidance on funding options specific to Williamson County. Regional community lenders, bankers, and creative financing experts will present practical guidance on:
● Traditional and alternative financing options
● Preparing for business loans and funding opportunities
● Credit, collateral and lender expectations
● Local and community funding programs
● Strengthening business plans and financial projections

“Access to the right financing can make a world of difference in getting a business off to a good start. Businesses in Marion having taken advantage of our programs and we want others to know that there are opportunities to launch your business with CCI as a funding partner,” said Cody Moake, Champion Community Board Member (Williamson County) and Chief of Staff for the City of Marion.
“This workshop will give local entrepreneurs the tools and connections to move forward with their project.” Robyn Russell, CCI Executive Director, said, “This event will give business owners a great chance to meet and interact with lenders in their towns/county and develop some relationships they can keep throughout the life of their business.”

Fast-growing Williamson County in Southern Illinois beckons travelers and visitors as a regional destination for high quality outdoor recreation, sports events, cultural attractions, family entertainment and hospitality. Located at the intersection of Interstates 24, 57, and Illinois Route 13, Williamson County is home to the largest collection of shopping, lodging, wineries, and eating establishments in Southern Illinois.

Champion Community Investments (CCI) is a 501(c)3 non-profit corporation founded in 2002 and originally known as Southern Illinois Coal Belt Champion Community, Inc. CCI is dedicated to regional economic and community development by providing essential capital to start-up and existing small businesses in underserved communities.

Flexible Financing: We offer direct-to-borrower loans and can partner with commercial banks on participation loan projects, providing gap or bridge financing. We even help those who might not qualify for traditional “credit elsewhere.” Service area in Illinois: CCI proudly serves the 12-county footprint of Franklin, Gallatin, Hamilton, Hardin, Jackson, Jefferson, Perry, Pope, Randolph, Saline, White, and Williamson.

Lunch will be provided. Space is limited; registration is required by emailing [email protected] by Monday, August 10, 2026.
Contact Robyn Russell, CCI Executive Director, for media/information at Email: [email protected] or phone 618-559-6194. Media is invited to attend, but must make a reservation.

Thank you! Please share!

07/27/2026

Hey Perry Co business people! Please plan on joining us August 4 and Pinckneyville for a free finding financing for your small business workshop. There will be so many resource providers on hand who can help you navigate your way through financing a startup business or expanding an existing business. RSVP today and save your seat!

Please share thank you.

A free workshop is being offered in Perry County, IL, called “Finding Financing for Your Small Business Using Traditional and Alternative Funding Methods,” on Tuesday, August 4, 2026, from 10:00 AM–12:00 PM at the Rend Lake College Murphy-Wall Pinckneyville Campus (address above). Attendees will receive a free lunch and are invited to stay after the presentation to network with the lenders and resource providers and get advice about their business projects and possible funding solutions.

This session is designed for aspiring entrepreneurs, startups, and current small business owners seeking guidance on funding options specific to Perry County. Regional community lenders, bankers, and creative financing experts will present practical guidance on:
● Traditional and alternative financing options
● Preparing for business loans and funding opportunities
● Credit, collateral, and lender expectations
● Local and community funding programs
● Strengthening business plans and financial projections

“Access to the right financing can make a world of difference in getting a business off to a good start,” said Jessica Holder, Champion Community Board Member (Perry County) and Owner of Eclipse Insurance in Du Quoin, IL. “This workshop will give local entrepreneurs the tools and connections to move forward with their project.”

Champion Community Investments (CCI) is a 501(c)3 non-profit corporation founded in 2002 and originally known as Southern Illinois Coal Belt Champion Community, Inc. CCI is dedicated to regional economic andcommunity development by providing essential capital to start-up and existing small businesses in underserved communities.

Flexible Financing: We offer direct-to-borrower loans and can partner with commercial banks on participation loan projects, providing gap or bridge financing. We even help those who might not qualify for traditional “credit elsewhere.” Service area in Illinois: CCI proudly serves the 12-county footprint of Franklin, Gallatin, Hamilton, Hardin, Jackson, Jefferson, Perry, Pope, Randolph, Saline, White, and Williamson.

Additional Resources: In addition to county economic developers and lenders, representatives from USDA Business Programs and the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity will be on hand to discuss financing opportunities. Advisors from the Illinois Small Business Development Center at Southern Illinois University will also be available to discuss business plans and strategies.

Make a Reservation today! Lunch will be provided. Space is limited; registration is required by emailing [email protected] by Thursday, July 30, 2026.
Contact Robyn Russell, CCI Executive Director, for media/information at Email: [email protected] or phone 618-559-6194. Media is invited to attend, but must RSVP.

Please share! Thank you!

07/20/2026

A free workshop is being offered in Williamson County, IL, called “Finding Financing for Your Small Business Using Traditional and Alternative Funding Methods,” on Friday, August 14, 2026, from 10:00 AM–12:00 PM at the EThOs at the Citadel, in Marion, IL.

EThOs is a small business incubator, coworking spaces, training & development community, which provides many economic development training and education resources for local businesses.

This session is designed for aspiring entrepreneurs, startups, and current small business owners seeking guidance on funding options specific to Williamson County. Regional community lenders, bankers, and creative financing experts will present practical guidance on:
● Traditional and alternative financing options
● Preparing for business loans and funding opportunities
● Credit, collateral and lender expectations
● Local and community funding programs
● Strengthening business plans and financial projections

“Access to the right financing can make a world of difference in getting a business off to a good start. Businesses in Marion having taken advantage of our programs and we want others to know that there are opportunities to launch your business with CCI as a funding partner,” said Cody Moake, Champion Community Board Member (Williamson County) and Chief of Staff for the City of Marion.
“This workshop will give local entrepreneurs the tools and connections to move forward with their project.” Robyn Russell, CCI Executive Director, said, “This event will give business owners a great chance to meet and interact with lenders in their towns/county and develop some relationships they can keep throughout the life of their business.”

Fast-growing Williamson County in Southern Illinois beckons travelers and visitors as a regional destination for high quality outdoor recreation, sports events, cultural attractions, family entertainment and hospitality. Located at the intersection of Interstates 24, 57, and Illinois Route 13, Williamson County is home to the largest collection of shopping, lodging, wineries, and eating establishments in Southern Illinois.

Champion Community Investments (CCI) is a 501(c)3 non-profit corporation founded in 2002 and originally known as Southern Illinois Coal Belt Champion Community, Inc. CCI is dedicated to regional economic and community development by providing essential capital to start-up and existing small businesses in underserved communities.

Flexible Financing: We offer direct-to-borrower loans and can partner with commercial banks on participation loan projects, providing gap or bridge financing. We even help those who might not qualify for traditional “credit elsewhere.” Service area in Illinois: CCI proudly serves the 12-county footprint of Franklin, Gallatin, Hamilton, Hardin, Jackson, Jefferson, Perry, Pope, Randolph, Saline, White, and Williamson.

Lunch will be provided. Space is limited; registration is required by emailing [email protected] by Monday, August 10, 2026.
Contact Robyn Russell, CCI Executive Director, for media/information at Email: [email protected] or phone 618-559-6194. Media is invited to attend, but must make a reservation.

Thank you! Please share!

07/20/2026

A free workshop is being offered in Perry County, IL, called “Finding Financing for Your Small Business Using Traditional and Alternative Funding Methods,” on Tuesday, August 4, 2026, from 10:00 AM–12:00 PM at the Rend Lake College Murphy-Wall Pinckneyville Campus (address above). Attendees will receive a free lunch and are invited to stay after the presentation to network with the lenders and resource providers and get advice about their business projects and possible funding solutions.

This session is designed for aspiring entrepreneurs, startups, and current small business owners seeking guidance on funding options specific to Perry County. Regional community lenders, bankers, and creative financing experts will present practical guidance on:
● Traditional and alternative financing options
● Preparing for business loans and funding opportunities
● Credit, collateral, and lender expectations
● Local and community funding programs
● Strengthening business plans and financial projections

“Access to the right financing can make a world of difference in getting a business off to a good start,” said Jessica Holder, Champion Community Board Member (Perry County) and Owner of Eclipse Insurance in Du Quoin, IL. “This workshop will give local entrepreneurs the tools and connections to move forward with their project.”

Champion Community Investments (CCI) is a 501(c)3 non-profit corporation founded in 2002 and originally known as Southern Illinois Coal Belt Champion Community, Inc. CCI is dedicated to regional economic andcommunity development by providing essential capital to start-up and existing small businesses in underserved communities.

Flexible Financing: We offer direct-to-borrower loans and can partner with commercial banks on participation loan projects, providing gap or bridge financing. We even help those who might not qualify for traditional “credit elsewhere.” Service area in Illinois: CCI proudly serves the 12-county footprint of Franklin, Gallatin, Hamilton, Hardin, Jackson, Jefferson, Perry, Pope, Randolph, Saline, White, and Williamson.

Additional Resources: In addition to county economic developers and lenders, representatives from USDA Business Programs and the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity will be on hand to discuss financing opportunities. Advisors from the Illinois Small Business Development Center at Southern Illinois University will also be available to discuss business plans and strategies.

Make a Reservation today! Lunch will be provided. Space is limited; registration is required by emailing [email protected] by Thursday, July 30, 2026.
Contact Robyn Russell, CCI Executive Director, for media/information at Email: [email protected] or phone 618-559-6194. Media is invited to attend, but must RSVP.

Please share! Thank you!

07/20/2026

A free workshop is being offered in Franklin County, IL, called “Finding Financing for Your Small Business Using Traditional and Alternative Funding Methods,” on Thursday, July 30, 2026, from 10:00 AM–12:00 PM at the Benton Firehouse Training Center (address on flyer attached). Attendees will receive a free lunch and are invited to stay after the presentation to network with the lenders and get advice about their business projects and possible funding solutions.

This session is designed for aspiring entrepreneurs, startups, and current small business owners seeking guidance on funding options specific to Franklin County.

Regional community lenders, bankers, and creative financing experts will present practical guidance on:
● Traditional and alternative financing options
● Preparing for business loans and funding opportunities
● Credit, collateral, and lender expectations
● Local and community funding programs
● Strengthening business plans and financial projections

“One of the bigger challenges I've found for entrepreneurs in Franklin County is figuring out access to capital to help their dreams become reality. CCI is a great asset to partnering local businesses with funding sources,” said Lee Messersmith, Mayor of Benton and Champion Community Board Member (Franklin County).

Robyn Russell, CCI Executive Director, said, “This event will give business owners a great chance to meet and interact with lenders in their local area and develop some relationships they can keep throughout the life of their business.”

Lenders and economic developers who work in the Franklin County footprint know they can offer a strategic combination of financial incentives, logistical advantages, and localized support that makes it an attractive destination for starting or expanding a business.

Champion Community Investments (CCI) is a 501(c)3 non-profit corporation founded in 2002 and originally known as Southern Illinois Coal Belt Champion Community, Inc. CCI is dedicated to regional economic and community development by providing essential capital to start-up and existing small businesses in underserved communities.

Flexible Financing: We offer direct-to-borrower loans and can partner with commercial banks on participation loan projects, providing gap or bridge financing. We even help those who might not qualify for traditional “credit elsewhere.” Service area in Illinois: CCI proudly serves the 12-county footprint of Franklin, Gallatin, Hamilton, Hardin, Jackson, Jefferson, Perry, Pope, Randolph, Saline, White, and Williamson.

Additional Resources: In addition to county economic developers and lenders, representatives from USDA Business Programs and the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity will be on hand to discuss financing opportunities. Advisors from the Illinois Small Business Development Center at Southern Illinois University will also be available to discuss business plans and strategies.
Make a Reservation today! Lunch will be provided. Space is limited; registration is required by emailing [email protected] by Thursday, July 24, 2026.

Contact Robyn Russell, CCI Executive Director, for media/information at Email: [email protected] or phone 618-559-6194. Media is invited to attend, but must RSVP.

Please share this post. Thank you!

07/14/2026

KFVS12 featured the CCI Finding Financing workshop series today on their Heartland Business Break.

Sign up to attend one of our five workshops!

Finding financing for your small business

04/20/2026

Finding Financing for Your Small Business — Free Workshop for Entrepreneurs in Jefferson County, Illinois

Jefferson County Development Corporation (JCDC) will host a free workshop, “Finding Financing for Your Small Business,” on Thursday, May 7, 2026, from 10:00 AM–12:00 PM at the Iriti Innovation Center (Fifth Floor), 123 S. 10th Street, Mount Vernon.
This session is designed for aspiring entrepreneurs, startups, and current small business owners seeking guidance on funding options specific to Jefferson County. Regional community lenders, bankers, and creative financing experts will be in attendance and will present practical guidance on:
--Traditional and alternative financing options
--Preparing for business loans and funding opportunities
--Credit, collateral and lender expectations
--Local and community funding programs
--Strengthening business plans and financial projections
“Access to the right financing can turn an idea into a thriving business,” said Tony Iriti, Executive Director of the Jefferson County Development Corporation. “This workshop will give local entrepreneurs the tools and connections to move forward with confidence.” The Jefferson County Development Corporation promotes the Jefferson County region as a powerful combination of strategic location, business-friendly incentives, skilled workforce, and exceptional quality of life, backed by a strong base of existing industry. Positioned at the crossroads of major interstate, rail, and air networks, the region provides unmatched access to key markets across the Midwest and beyond. Companies that choose Jefferson County gain the advantages of a supportive economic ecosystem, competitive costs, and a community invested in long-term growth and success.
Champion Community Investments (CCI) is sponsoring the workshop. CCI provides Champion Community Investments (CCI) is a 501(c)3 non-profit corporation founded in 2002 and originally known as Southern Illinois Coal Belt Champion Community, Inc. CCI is dedicated to regional economic and community development by providing essential capital to start-up and existing small businesses in underserved communities.
To date, CCI has funded more than 200 loans totaling $13M+ to help local entrepreneurs start, grow, and manage their own businesses. Our mission is to ensure that sufficient capital is available to fuel business growth and job creation throughout our region.
Flexible Financing: We offer direct-to-borrower loans and can partner with commercial banks on participation loan projects, providing gap or bridge financing. We even help those who might not qualify for traditional “credit elsewhere.”
Service area in Illinois: CCI proudly serves the 12-county footprint of Franklin, Gallatin, Hamilton, Hardin, Jackson, Jefferson, Perry, Pope, Randolph, Saline, White, and Williamson.
Lunch will be provided. Space is limited; registration is required by emailing [email protected] by May 4, 2026.
Contact Robyn Russell, CCI Executive Director, for media/information at Email: [email protected] or phone 618-559-6194.

Please share! Thanks!

04/13/2026

Champion Community Investments is hosting several free workshops this summer titled FINDING FINANCING FOR YOUR SMALL BUSINESS.

The first workshop will be on May 7, 10am-noon, in Jefferson County. A free lunch will be provided. The complete information is below in our news release. All Jefferson County lenders and small business owners seeking financing are invited to attend. The remaining four workshops will be held in Franklin, Perry, Jackson, and Williamson Counties at a later date. Media is encouraged to attend. Please help spread the word by sharing.

Thank yoU!

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Headline: Finding Financing for Your Small Business — Free Workshop for Entrepreneurs
Dateline: Mount Vernon, IL — April 13, 2026
Jefferson County Development Corporation (JCDC) will host a free workshop, “Finding Financing for Your Small Business,” on Thursday, May 7, 2026, from 10:00 AM–12:00 PM at the Iriti Innovation Center (Fifth Floor), 123 S. 10th Street, Mount Vernon.
This session is designed for aspiring entrepreneurs, startups, and current small business owners seeking guidance on funding options specific to Jefferson County. Regional community lenders, bankers, and creative financing experts will be in attendance and will present practical guidance on:
--Traditional and alternative financing options
--Preparing for business loans and funding opportunities
--Credit, collateral and lender expectations
--Local and community funding programs
--Strengthening business plans and financial projections
“Access to the right financing can turn an idea into a thriving business,” said Tony Iriti, Executive Director of the Jefferson County Development Corporation. “This workshop will give local entrepreneurs the tools and connections to move forward with confidence.” The Jefferson County Development Corporation promotes the Jefferson County region as a powerful combination of strategic location, business-friendly incentives, skilled workforce, and exceptional quality of life, backed by a strong base of existing industry. Positioned at the crossroads of major interstate, rail, and air networks, the region provides unmatched access to key markets across the Midwest and beyond. Companies that choose Jefferson County gain the advantages of a supportive economic ecosystem, competitive costs, and a community invested in long-term growth and success.
Champion Community Investments (CCI) is sponsoring the workshop. CCI provides Champion Community Investments (CCI) is a 501(c)3 non-profit corporation founded in 2002 and originally known as Southern Illinois Coal Belt Champion Community, Inc. CCI is dedicated to regional economic and community development by providing essential capital to start-up and existing small businesses in underserved communities.
To date, CCI has funded more than 200 loans totaling $13M+ to help local entrepreneurs start, grow, and manage their own businesses. Our mission is to ensure that sufficient capital is available to fuel business growth and job creation throughout our region.
Flexible Financing: We offer direct-to-borrower loans and can partner with commercial banks on participation loan projects, providing gap or bridge financing. We even help those who might not qualify for traditional “credit elsewhere.”
Service area in Illinois: CCI proudly serves the 12-county footprint of Franklin, Gallatin, Hamilton, Hardin, Jackson, Jefferson, Perry, Pope, Randolph, Saline, White, and Williamson.

Lunch will be provided. Space is limited; registration is required by emailing [email protected] by May 1, 2026.
Contact Robyn Russell, CCI Executive Director, for media/information at Email: [email protected] or phone 618-559-6194.