Emergence and Growth of Community Supported Enterprises

Local public officials and community leaders, in searching for ways to help revitalize their economies especially in the post-recession years, are working with business leaders in a variety of new ways. While low-cost loans and other financial inducements continue, in some communities, local groups have also organized residents to raise funds that then are invested directly in business ventures called Community Supported Enterprises (CSEs).

Downtown Success Indicators

The purpose of this literature review is to provide a better understanding of indicators defining downtown success. This review will summarize characteristics of successful downtowns as described in contemporary literature pertaining to urban planning, downtown revitalization and business development. This analysis will support communities in using data for business development and developing fruitful partnerships with the private sector.

Illinois Main Street Downtown Development Toolbox

This toolbox contains tools that Main Street executive directors and volunteers can use to assist downtown businesses, carry out downtown improvement projects, provide information for residents and visitors and run their own organizations effectively.

Small Business Development Centers

SBDCs help entrepreneurs realize the dream of business ownership and help existing businesses remain competitive in a complex, ever-changing global marketplace. They are generally affiliated with a University outreach or Extension service.

Rural Economic Development Educational Programs, Research and Resources

The Illinois Institute for Rural Affairs is a clearinghouse for information on rural issues, coordinates rural research, and works with state agencies on issues of importance to rural communities.

Downtown Success Indicators

This literature review represents the first phase of a long term project focused on identifying economically resilient small city downtowns and ultimately creating a searchable database of successful communities. The purpose of this literature review is to provide a better understanding of indicators defining downtown success.

Entrepreneurial Communities

It is a place for us to share what we have learned about creating entrepreneurial communities and to celebrate what the pilot communities in western Illinois have accomplished to date.

Creating Resilient and Vibrant Downtowns

Division of Extension

State: Illinois

Emergence and Growth of Community Supported Enterprises

Downtown Success Indicators

Illinois Main Street Downtown Development Toolbox

Small Business Development Centers

Rural Economic Development Educational Programs, Research and Resources

Downtown Success Indicators

Entrepreneurial Communities