According to the 2021 Annual Business Survey (ABS), there were 1.24 million businesses that were women-owned who employed 10.9 million employees and generated $1.9 trillion in receipts. While women-owned businesses have grown, there are specific issues women entrepreneurs face.

China has been among the top destinations for Illinois’ exports in recent years. Business owners doing business in or with China may find their valuable intellectual property (IP) is being infringed there. Even businesses not operating in China may find counterfeit versions of their products for sale in China or the United States, or their...

The U.S. Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS), a part of the U.S. Department of Commerce, is responsible for implementing and enforcing export controls for goods and technologies that have both commercial and potential military uses. Attending BIS export compliance training seminars can enhance employees’ understanding of export regulations, minimize the risk of violations, and...

Over seven days, mission participants will attend group and customized one-on-one meetings with potential business partners. A successful trade mission lays the foundation for the identification and development of a platform for increased exports. Australia is a top export market for Illinois-made products, ranking 3rd in 2022. Traditionally, Illinois has supplied transportation equipment, machinery, chemicals,...

As one of the world’s largest and fastest-growing countries, India’s dynamic and diverse economy presents numerous opportunities for Illinois businesses looking to expand their global reach. With a vast consumer base, pro-business policies, recent economic reforms, and a vibrant and ever-moving business environment, India attracts businesses across various sectors. In 2022, Illinois exports totaled $1.04...

Celebrate Arab American Heritage Month with us at the Inaugural Arab American Network and Resource Fair on April 25, 2024, from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm at the Moraine Valley Community College Conference Center presented by the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity - Office of Minority Economic Empowerment and the SBDC at ABPA....

The Export-Import Bank of the U.S. (EXIM) in collaboration with the Illinois District Export Council (IL DEC), the City of Aurora, and the U.S. Commercial Service invite you to join...

Gathering America's export professionals to connect, collaborate, and solve problems together. The NADEC Annual Export Conference, held annually in Washington, D.C., brings together distinguished speakers including business leaders, high-ranking U.S. and foreign government officials, exporters, trade service providers, and trade promotion agencies. This Conference provides space for industry peers to share expertise, proven export strategies,...

We invite Illinois small businesses to join the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunities' Office of Trade and Investment on a multi-sector trade mission to Canada, June 9-15, 2024. Participants will receive a customized itinerary which will include one-on-one pre-vetted meetings with potential distributors and business partners. The United States and Canada enjoy the...