Illinois Local announces partnership with Illinois Small Business Development Center for Central Illinois

The Illinois Small Business Development Center for Central Illinois is the new marketing partner for the third annual Illinois Local Holiday Market on Small Business Saturday.

The market is in the Exposition Building at the Illinois State Fairgrounds in Springfield from 9 am to 4 pm on Saturday, November 25, 2023. Last year it attracted 60 vendors, all local independent businesses, and nonprofits across the state, and more than 1,600 shoppers.

“This year, we hope to have 80 vendors and attract 2,500 shoppers. Thanks to the support of Kevin Lust, Illinois SBDC for Central Illinois Director, and his team, we can allocate further funds to online advertising through Facebook and Instagram. This is a great way to showcase the diverse range of Illinois Local members and nonmembers, participating from across the state,” said Gemma Long, Illinois Local co-founder.

Illinois Local is a membership of more than 200 local independent businesses, and causes, launched in December 2020 by Gemma and Chris Long. The pair also own a public relations and media company in the capital.

The Illinois SBDC is part of the US Small Business Administration’s national network of business advisors.

Kevin Lust said Small Business Saturday is the perfect opportunity for people to discover and support entrepreneurs and small businesses. “Our best guidance for small business owners is ‘Don’t try to go it alone.’ Groups like Illinois Local and events like Small Business Saturday are terrific ways for business owners to support and celebrate one another.”

The Holiday Market will also feature performances from local dance groups, Santa, from 10 am to 3 pm, food, drinks, and holiday gifts. Entry to the market is $3 for age 13 and over. Visits with Santa are free, but a donation is welcome, and funds will go to a local charity.

If you are interested in participating in the Holiday Market as a vendor, please visit illinoislocal.org/events, if you are interested in performing, please email hello@illinoislocal.org.

Illinois Local will also host its third annual Conference and Awards on Monday, September 11, at the Grant Conservatory of Music and Dance from 8 am to noon. Attendance is free to members. Nonmembers are welcome to and can reserve seats here: illinoislocal.org/events.

For more information about Illinois SBDC for Central Illinois, please visit https://www.cisbdc.com.