Illinois Small Business Development Center clients play significant role in American Business Club 100 Gala

Five Illinois Small Business Development Center for Central Illinois clients will serve 250 guests at this week's American Business Club 100-year gala.

The Illinois Building at the Illinois State Fairgrounds in Springfield will host the ABC's largest celebration since its inception in 1925.

Gabi Thompson, owner of Bloom Hospitality & Catering

SBDC clients who will collaborate to create a memorable celebration for ABC include Bloom Hospitality & Catering, Just the Basics Mobile Bar, Best Expo, Audio Technical Services, and Piano Network of Springfield.

The Illinois Small Business Development Center for Central Illinois provides free business advice to individuals in Sangamon, Menard, Logan, Christian, Montgomery, Macoupin, Morgan, Cass, Greene, and Scott counties.

Director of the Illinois Small Business Development Center for Central Illinois, Kevin Lust, said it was important to the ABC 100 gala organizing committee to involve local businesses in its 100-anniversary celebration.

Madison Reagan, owner of Just the Basics Mobile Bar

"Events like this demand the best from their vendors. Luckily, we have excellent local businesses in Springfield that can serve their clients in the best way possible," he said. "Coincidentally, five vendors supporting ABC's 100th Anniversary have been Illinois SBDC clients."

Activities to celebrate the 100th anniversary include a centennial celebration luncheon on Thursday, during which 26 local causes will receive a share of $130,000, the premiere of a 30-minute documentary by The Storyteller Studios telling the club's history on Friday, and the 100th-anniversary gala on Saturday.

Bloom Hospitality & Catering owner Gabi Thompson said being involved in the festivities was an honor.

"We are so excited to cater the ABC 100 gala and cannot wait to serve this group of highly regarded volunteers, business owners, and community leaders as they celebrate their awesome work over the past century," said Gabi.

The club manages concessions at the grandstand and oversees gate admissions at the Illinois State Fair. It also donates custom Amtrykes for children and veterans and awards scholarships to physical therapy students. As a result of its fundraising efforts, the club supports many local causes.

For further information about the Illinois Small Business Development Center for Central Illinois, visit cisbdc.com, and for information about the American Business Club, visit abcos.wildapricot.org