Build it • Grow it

Each year NWILED offers the Build It Grow It program, an entrepreneurial bootcamp designed to empower aspiring business owners and entrepreneurs. It is open to small business owners, managers, entrepreneurs, and high school and college students. Whether you're just starting out or looking to expand your existing business, this program can help you achieve your goals.

The 2025 program was a collaboration among NWILED, The Foundation for Northwest Illinois, Gradient Coaching & Consulting, Highland Community College, and Basket Case. It ran from January to April, with session locations alternating between the Davis Community Center in Mount Carroll and Mud Run Beer Co. in Stockton and covered a range of essential business topics.

Read the full 2025 program press release.
 

How to register for 2026:

Registration will reopen for the 2026 BIGI program fall 2025. Contact David Schmit at dschmit@nwiled.org for more information.