A free workshop is being offered in Williamson County, IL, called “Finding Financing for Your Small Business Using Traditional and Alternative Funding Methods.”
Friday, August 14, 2026, from 10:00 AM–12:00 PM at the EThOs at the Citadel, in Marion, IL.
This session is designed for aspiring entrepreneurs, startups, and current small business owners seeking guidance on funding options specific to Williamson County.
Regional community lenders, bankers, and creative financing experts will present practical guidance on:
● Traditional and alternative financing options
● Preparing for business loans and funding opportunities
● Credit, collateral and lender expectations
● Local and community funding programs
● Strengthening business plans and financial projections
“Access to the right financing can make a world of difference in getting a business off to a good start. Businesses in Marion having taken advantage of our programs and we want others to know that there are opportunities to launch your business with CCI as a funding partner,” said Cody Moake, Champion Community Board Member (Williamson County) and Chief of Staff for the City of Marion.
“This workshop will give local entrepreneurs the tools and connections to move forward with their project.” Robyn Russell, CCI Executive Director, said, “This event will give business owners a great chance to meet and interact with lenders in their towns/county and develop some relationships they can keep throughout the life of their business.”
Fast-growing Williamson County in Southern Illinois beckons travelers and visitors as a regional destination for high quality outdoor recreation, sports events, cultural attractions, family entertainment and hospitality. Located at the intersection of Interstates 24, 57, and Illinois Route 13, Williamson County is home to the largest collection of shopping, lodging, wineries, and eating establishments in Southern Illinois. Champion Community Investments (CCI) is a 501(c)3 non-profit corporation founded in 2002 and originally known as Southern Illinois Coal Belt Champion Community, Inc. CCI is dedicated to regional economic and community development by providing essential capital to start-up and existing small businesses in underserved communities.
Flexible Financing: We offer direct-to-borrower loans and can partner with commercial banks on participation loan projects, providing gap or bridge financing. We even help those who might not qualify for traditional “credit elsewhere.” Service area in Illinois: CCI proudly serves the 12-county footprint of Franklin, Gallatin, Hamilton, Hardin, Jackson, Jefferson, Perry, Pope, Randolph, Saline, White, and Williamson.
Lunch will be provided. Space is limited; registration is required by emailing cciexecdir@gmail.com by Monday, August 10, 2026.
Contact Robyn Russell, CCI Executive Director, for media/information at Email: cciexecdir@gmail.com or phone 618-559-6194.
Media is invited to attend, but must make a reservation.