Selected applicants can obtain up to $7,500 in matching funds. | File photo
Selected applicants can obtain up to $7,500 in matching funds. | File photo
Smoothies, sandwiches, soups and salads served up at Yolanda Wilson’s new restaurant can now fuel Champaign residents thanks to the sponsorship of the city’s new Small Business Incentive Program (SBIP), which now underwrites aspiring local entrepreneurs.
Hybrid Fit Foods offers its fare at 401 East University Ave., Suite 101, just west of the new Latitude Development. Wilson is one of the SBIP’s first beneficiaries. The program covered 75 percent of Wilson’s start-up expenses as well as reimbursing her for required training.
Champaign’s new initiative, an arm of the City’s Small Business Development Center (SBDC), features an online Virtual Incubator called “The Bridge” as an introduction for prospective participants at www.bridgeincubator.com. The site guides interested parties toward features such as free business counseling and links to resources.
Selected applicants can obtain up to $7,500 in matching funds; additionally, the program includes up to $1,000 in education credit.
Local small business owners who qualify for the program can attend the SBIP’s next informational meeting, scheduled for 10-11 a.m. on Sept. 14, at the Illinois Small Business Development Center at Champaign County offices at 1817 S. Neil St., Suite 100.
Eligibility is based on applicants’ enrollment in the SBDC, proof of business being conducted within the city limits, and compliance with standard federal, state and local regulations.
The city of Champaign’s SBDC Director Don Elmore will lead the Sept. 14 event. Attendance is free but registration is preferred by contacting carly@champaigncountyedc.org or 217-359-6261.
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