Community Resources

The City of Peoria partners with organizations in our community that can empower your business and connect them with resources within our city. 

Downtown Development Corporation (DDC)

The Downtown Development Corporation of Peoria is a 501(c)3 not-for-profit charitable organization whose mission is to promote the development of Downtown Peoria. They act as a spokesperson for downtown's stakeholders, including downtown businesses, organizations, property owners, resident, and the City of Peoria. 

US Ag Lab

The National Center for Agricultural Utilization Research (NCAUR) is among the largest agricultural research centers in the United States. NCAUR employs nearly 200 scientists and support staff in research to improve agricultural production, food safety and public health, economic development, and environmental quality.

Peoria Next Innovation Center

The Peoria NEXT Innovation Center has been a business incubator for startups looking to make their mark on the world. They are designed to meet the needs of expanding businesses and offer private office spaces, large office spaces (550 sq. ft.), and wet labs. Peoria NEXT also offers Affiliate Memberships for companies that need a mailbox and internet access, but are not currently in need of a private office.

Small Business Development Center (SBDC)

The Illinois Small Business Development Center (SBDC) at the Turner Center for Entrepreneurship has provided business counseling and support to entrepreneurs and existing businesses. The Center has accomplished this by providing businesses with the resources needed to solve business-related problems and take advantage of new opportunities. Since 2001, they have assisted over 300 companies obtain loans and invest equity in excess of $3.5 million to start or expand their business, which has led to the creation and retention of more than 150 jobs each year.

Greater Peoria Economic Development Council (GPEDC)

The Greater Peoria Economic Development Council (GPEDC) is a regional economic development and planning organization serving five counties in Central Illinois: Logan, Mason, Peoria, Tazewell, and Woodford. The Greater Peoria EDC exists to promote economic development in the region through its six core programs which include Business Attraction, Business Assistance, Workforce Solutions, Innovation and Startups, Rural Development, and the Greater Peoria Manufacturing Network.  

Minority Business Development Center (MBDC)

The Minority Business Development Center (MBDC) is a 501(c)3 nonprofit, entrepreneurial organization focused on innovative ways to grow minority businesses and a skilled workforce. Their mission is to educate and empower those wishing to achieve and maintain financial independence for themselves and the community. 

Peoria Area Chamber of Commerce (PACoC)

The Peoria Area Chamber of Commerce offers networking, professional development opportunities, business and marketing webinars, and act as a conduit for entrepreneurs to connect with the community. 

Greater Peoria Hispanic Chamber of Commerce

The Greater Peoria Hispanic Chamber of Commerce seeks to grow commerce, community, and culture for Latino businesses within Greater Peoria. 

Community Navigators

Community Navigators assist with federal, state, and local programming and serve as a connection point for businesses within our community. 

ArtsPartners of Central Illinois

ArtsPartners of Central Illinois is a non-for-profit organization whose mission is to build awareness and strengthen the arts for economic and cultural enrichment of Central Illinois. Their vision is to be the one-stop source for arts information in Central Illinois; and to facilitate partnerships and programs that empower and raise awareness for the arts.

Distillery Labs

Distiller Labs seeks to be a nationally recognized startup hub for entrepreneurs to launch and grow companies, drive innovation, and spur significant economic growth. They seek to accomplish this by connecting people, ideas, and resources to launch and grow new businesses in the Greater Peoria community.