The WBDC Turns 40. Explore 40 Years of Impact

2026 Top Shelf Retail: High Volume Growth Insights | Application Deadline

The Women’s Business Development Center (WBDC) is proud to present Top Shelf Retail: High Volume Retail Growth Insights. This cohort is an eight-week, curriculum based virtual cohort program designed to help established retail businesses access procurement opportunities in the mass retail market. Participants will learn how to build pricing, branding, and marketing strategies, and how...

Government Contracts Webinar

FOR ILLINOIS RESIDENTS ONLY. Introduction to Government Contracting Government contracting can be a powerful growth path for small businesses, but many owners don’t know where to start. This workshop breaks the process down in simple, practical steps—helping you understand how government agencies buy products and services, what qualifications you need. You’ll learn the key terminology,...

Essentials of Leveraging Your WBENC WBE Certification – Session 1

This interactive 2-part series is designed for WBENC WBEs who want to make sure they are using their WBE Certification to the fullest. Session 1 is Navigating Corporate Procurement Programs, WBENCLink2.0. and how to effectively market your business using the tool of certification

Recurring

Government Contracting Beginner’s Bootcamp

ELEVATE YOUR GOVERNMENT CONTRACTING JOURNEY April 7-28, 2026 | 11:00am – 12:00pm Join the Government Contracting Beginner’s Bootcamp hosted by the Illinois Apex Accelerator at WBDC Tuesdays at 11:00 am; for four dynamic sessions, each packed with invaluable insights and strategies to help you navigate the world of government contracting with confidence. Here’s a peek...