About Us

Microenterprise consists of the smallest businesses, typically employing one or two people, but seldom more than five. Start-up capital is typically between $500 and $10,000, and seldom more than $25,000.

The Illinois State Microenterprise Inititive was founded in 1996 to assist members in expanding their capacity to serve mircroentrepreneurs with the greatest needs. Its members provide small business planning and technical assistance, access to credit, and a support network that assists clients in the process of starting and growing their own businesses.

ISMI offers the following activities and services:

* The most recent information in the field of microenterprise development through the News page of this website

* Current information on industry challenges and opportunities for small businesses through this website, newletters, meetings and special events throughout the year, with presentations by practitioners in the field

* Linkages to lending programs that understand the necessity of funding microenterprises as an anti-poverty strategy

* A peer network that values personal contact, shares best practices, and promotes collaboration and partnership among those focused on economic development in lower income Communities

If you are a small business owner, take the time to search this site to see what resources you need that are available in your area of the state.

If you are an organization that assists small businesses, or in some related area of microenterprise development, use this site to identify colleagues and programs that might assist you in your work