Business Growth Services

What We Offer

Offering Business Growth in the Southland Area

SDA Business Growth Services (BGS) provides a range of services designed to help your business flourish.

Tailored Expert Consulting

Receive personalized consulting tailored to your specific business needs. Whether you need guidance on financial management, marketing, or HR, our experts are here to help.

Special Programs

Shop Southland

Give your business a boost with expert marketing, influencer campaigns, and targeted social ads. 

This initiative is designed to elevate your brand’s visibility and engagement within the Southland community. Leverage expert marketing, influencer campaigns, and targeted social ads to revitalize your business presence and effectively connect with local customers.

Tax Pro Assistance

Access professional tax preparation services at reduced costs, targeting businesses in sectors most affected by COVID-19. 

A strategic initiative to support small businesses in Cook County, Illinois. This program offers professional tax preparation services at substantially reduced costs, specifically targeting businesses with lower gross revenues and those in sectors most affected by COVID-19. 

Community Partnerships

BGS fosters partnerships within the community to provide businesses with access to resources and support.

Build meaningful connections through our Community Partnerships, designed to provide businesses with essential resources and support. BGS collaborates with local organizations to empower businesses, ensuring they have the tools needed to thrive and grow within the community.

Illinois APEX Accelerator

Gain the expertise needed to navigate federal, state, and local contracts, positioning your business for growth and success in the public sector.

The Illinois APEX Accelerator, formerly known as the Procurement Technical Assistance Center (PTAC), is managed by the Department of Defense (DoD) Office of Small Business Programs (OSBP). 

We provide comprehensive guidance for government contracting success and assist Illinois businesses with their federal, state, and local government contracting needs.

Illinois Economic Empowerment Center

The Illinois Economic Empowerment Center (EEC) offers tailored support for socially and economically disadvantaged individuals (SEDI)-owned businesses, very small businesses (VSBs), and entrepreneurs from minority groups, women, individuals with disabilities, dislocated workers, veterans, and youth entrepreneurs across Illinois. 

We provide no-cost business advice, technical assistance, and cohort training designed to meet your unique business needs. Contact us today to learn how we can help your business thrive.

Cook County Small Business Source

An award-winning program dedicated to supporting, growing, and elevating small businesses, the backbone of Cook County’s economy. We connect small business owners directly with expert guidance and essential resources to help take their businesses to the next level.

Business Education for Entrepreneurs

Providing educational opportunities and capacity-building programs for entrepreneurs.

At Southland Development Authority (SDA), we believe that education is the cornerstone of business success. Our Business Education programs are designed to equip entrepreneurs with the skills and knowledge they need to thrive in today’s competitive market.

BGS BizUp Cohorts: Take Your Business to the Next Level

Join our BGS BizUp Cohorts to advance your business through targeted, hands-on training in the following areas:

Business Financial Fundamentals

This tailored program helps business owners learn crucial financial skills, no matter their experience level. Participants will gain a comprehensive understanding of their business financials, essential for:

  • Effective management

  • Strategic planning

  • Ensuring long-term, profitable success

  • Business sustainability

Modern Marketing

 In our Modern Marketing program, participants learn how to:

  • Identify and engage with their target audience

  • Build a brand identity that resonates

  • Use AI tools to create compelling marketing assets

  • Analyze and improve marketing strategies for future success

HR & Team Management

This cohort is designed to help businesses cultivate a positive culture and manage their teams effectively. The program focuses on:

  • Building strong, cohesive teams

  • Fostering a work environment that drives productivity and employee satisfaction

Events Calendar

Ready to Grow Your Business?

SDA's Business Growth Services are here to help your business succeed. Contact us today to learn more about our services or to schedule a consultation.