In today's fast-paced world, communication is key to staying ahead. The Illinois Department of Commerce and Community Affairs (DCCA) operates the Illinois Small Business Development Center Electronic Network to keep the lines of communication open between the state and its economic development partners and assist them in gaining quick access to important information.

The network, a personal computer-based electronic bulletin board and message mail system, enables individual users to access information on community and economic development, as well as the state's programs and resources. Although the system is designed to enhance communication between the Illinois Small Business Development Centers, Procurement Assistance Centers, International Trade Centers, Business Incubators, Corridors of Opportunity, and other local and regional organizations involved in community and economic development, individual users who have the appropriate computer equipment may also be granted access. All that's needed is a personal computer equipped with a modem and communications software.

Accessing the network enables users to communicate with DCCA and other users through the message mail system, and access current community and economic development program information. Users may view information on current international trade leads, as well as information on upcoming trade shows. Users are also able to input community and economic development information they feel is of interest to other users.

The Illinois Small Business Development Center Electronic Network may be accessed through a toll-free telephone number. There is no charge to the user for contacts with the network.

For more information on the Illinois Small Business Development Center Network, contact Tom Lawton at DCCA at 217/785-6151.

Page 4 / Illinois Municipal Review / January 1994