• Why does the Minority Business Development Center (MBDC) exist?
  A. The MBDC was born out of the lack of business startup services that addressed specific concerns of the minority community. It is wholly owned and operated by the Black Business Alliance Peoria Chapter, Inc. A 501c3 non-profit organization.

• What were some of those concerns?
  A. Some of those concerns were: lack of resource accessibility during non-standard business hours, the need for training on topics that addressed wealth building, and a specific focus on minority business and community empowerment.

• Who does the MBDC serve?
  A. Although focusing on minorities, women, and veterans, MBDC services are available to everyone.

• What are the MBDC service boundaries?
  A. The MBDC is a regional center that draws clients in Illinois from Galesburg to Danville, and from LaSalle/Peru to Lincoln.

• Is there a cost for services of the MBDC?
  A. MBDC, along with our partners, offers business counseling and many classes at no charge. Although there may be a cost for custom programming, the MBDC may be able to offer scholarships to those who qualify.

• Who are some of the MBDC partners?
  A. Some of our partners are SCORE, Illinois SBDC, and Illinois Central College.

• How can I support the efforts of the Minority Business Development Center (MBDC)?
  A. Your generous, tax-deductible donation can be mailed to our Accounting Department at 2139 SW Adams St., Peoria, Illinois 61602 or you can donate online at www.mbdcpeoria.org.