ESDC’s approach to economic development is dynamic. We believe that business growth is vital to the creation and retention of jobs, hiring locally reduces the carbon footprint as well as the turnover rate of employees, and basic needs have to be met so that the members of the communities we serve can take advantage of professional and developmental opportunities. We are all integral parts of our local economy, and we are in it together.
A community organization should channel the voice of the community it serves. ESDC engages the community by conducting an annual survey to gain an understanding of the needs of local small businesses and the families who operate them. From our homeless population to our local artists, and from our small business owners to our corporate CEOs, we are all an integral part of our local economy and each have a role in making it stronger, more prosperous, and more inclusive.
Why reinvent the wheel? When we effectively leverage our partnerships, we can efficiently connect our clients to the programs and services they need. ESDC works closely with its partners in both the private and nonprofit sector in order to achieve the greatest impact in the communities we serve.
ESDC understands that the needs of the community are not static, but rather evolving. Our organic approach to meeting the needs of the communities we serve allows us to rise to the occasion and offer the programming and services that will address the challenges currently being experienced by individuals and businesses.
ESDC is in constant search of new ways to foster economic growth by incorporating the latest technology and research to creatively address the needs of the individuals and businesses we serve.
By Salvador Cerna According to the World History Encyclopedia, “A mandala (Sanskrit for “circle”) is an artistic representation of higher thought and deeper meaning given to a geometric symbol used in spiritual, emotional, or psychological work to focus one’s attention.” The encyclopedia also states that mandalas can be traced to Hindu texts from 1500 to Read the full article
By Salvador Cerna Most immigrants leave friends, loved ones and their community behind as they set off in search of the American dream. Once they arrive in the United States, their economic, social, and cultural contributions can help strengthen our economic infrastructure, enrich our cultural framework, and make the U.S. a more dynamic nation. This Read the full article
By Salvador Cerna How many fond memories come to mind when you step into an ice cream parlor? Perhaps it’s the first date with a special someone from your past or the smile of delight of children enjoying the satisfying, sweet and creamy nectar. Or it’s reminiscent of time ‘you truly care’ with your significant Read the full article
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 23, 2022 12:00 PM CENTRAL TIME (US AND CANADA) When Illinois state grants will be released, we want you to be prepared! The Grant Accountability and Transparency Act (GATA) Pre-Award preparation session will help you prepare to quickly act on Notice of Funding Opportunities. In this session, we will cover Read the full article
MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2022 5:00 PM CENTRAL TIME (US AND CANADA) The presenter will discuss the many free resources that are available to start your own business such as free legal clinics, free counselors and grant opportunities. In addition, the presenter will discuss some of the steps involved in starting your own Read the full article
This is the second of a wealth-building, bilingual, workshop series that will increase participants’ level of financial literacy while providing the necessary tools to become more financially savvy and self-empowered. This no-cost, in-person and Zoom workshop will cover topics and questions like… What does it really mean to invest in the stock market? The Golden Read the full article
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 23, 2022 12:00 PM CENTRAL TIME (US AND CANADA) When Illinois state grants will be released, we want you to be prepared! The Grant Accountability and Transparency Act (GATA) Pre-Award preparation session will help you prepare to quickly act on Notice of Funding Opportunities. In this session, we will cover Read the full article
MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2022 5:00 PM CENTRAL TIME (US AND CANADA) The presenter will discuss the many free resources that are available to start your own business such as free legal clinics, free counselors and grant opportunities. In addition, the presenter will discuss some of the steps involved in starting your own Read the full article
This is the second of a wealth-building, bilingual, workshop series that will increase participants’ level of financial literacy while providing the necessary tools to become more financially savvy and self-empowered. This no-cost, in-person and Zoom workshop will cover topics and questions like… What does it really mean to invest in the stock market? The Golden Read the full article