Business Assistance

Informs Companies of Government Services and Programs

ICNC assists companies in accessing City, State and Federal services and programs – examples include vacating an alley, receiving grants for infrastructure investments, applying for low-interest loans, repairing a sidewalk or curb, procuring government contracts and accessing TIF and SBIF funds.

 

Advocates for Business Interests

ICNC provides information on issues affecting Kinzie Corridor businesses and represents their business interests to government decision-makers – examples include amending the landscaping ordinance for industrial areas, supporting industrial-friendly zoning and ensuring infrastructure projects do not impair traffic or business operations.

 

Links Companies to Business Development Services and Loans

ICNC assists companies in finding resources which will strengthen their businesses – whether it be securing funds to expand operations, identifying new markets, revising a business plan or streamlining production processes.

 

Assists in Reducing Energy Costs  

ICNC arranges no-cost energy evaluations for companies and works closely with decision-makers to fund and implement cost-saving measures.  ICNC has recently implemented a number of energy conservation measures in its own Fulton-Carroll Center facility.

 

Places new Employees and Assists in Workforce Development

ICNC works to meet the employment needs of local companies by screening and assessing job candidates and arranging interviews with employers.  ICNC also assists employers in securing and utilizing TIF dollars for employee training programs.  All ICNC members have access to 165 computerized tests (software programs, payroll, proofreading, ESL, blueprints, industrial skills, etc.) for assessment of job candidates or current employees.

 

Offers Educational Sessions and Networking Events

ICNC addresses current business needs by facilitating seminars, workshops and social events.  Topics include Human Resources, Employee Benefits, Government Regulations, Tax-Credits, Government Grants, Finance/Loans, Real Estate,  etc. 

 

Provides Local Industry Information

ICNC distributes information on news and events (including local workshops and seminars) in and around the Kinzie Corridor through its "Industry Insider" and  “Kinzie Klips” newsletters.

 

Offers Incubator Space for New and Emerging Businesses  

Through its Fulton-Carroll Center (FCC) Incubator, ICNC offers affordable space to over 90 tenants, many of whom are start-up companies receiving ongoing business development assistance.

 

Provides Assistance to Small Business - both Existing and Start-up

Effective July 2004, ICNC began offering business assistance to small businesses through the Illinois Small Business Development Center at ICNC.