Durbin Meets With Clients And Staff At Joliet Junior College’s Entrepreneur And Business Center

August 12, 2026 Durbin Meets With Clients And Staff At Joliet Junior College’s Entrepreneur And Business Center JOLIET —U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) today visited the Entrepreneur and Business Center (EBC) at Joliet Junior College’s City Center Campus for an update on the college’s work to provide training and advising to entrepreneurs with a focus on women, minorities, and veteran-owned small businesses. Durbin secured $800,000 in Congressionally Directed Spending—also known as an earmark—in the Fiscal Year 2026 Financial Services and General Government funding bill to allow the EBC to expand current efforts to support small business owners by adding additional business advisors for one-on-one consultations and offer workshops and trainings to students and the public. “Small businesses need more support right now, and that’s exactly what the EBC is offering,” Durbin said. “The small business owners and entrepreneurs who benefit from this center represent the promise of young people looking to roll up their sleeves and kick-start their careers, working moms who defied the odds and decided to pursue their passion project, or even an immigrant to this country looking to give back and get their shot at the American Dream. It’s great to be here at the EBC to celebrate the good, impactful work that is at the core of this center’s mission.” “Senator Durbin’s investment in Joliet Junior College’s Entrepreneur and Business Center is ultimately an investment in people and the communities they serve,” said Dr. Clyne Namuo, Joliet Junior College President. “We are honored by his confidence in JJC and grateful for his longstanding support of initiatives that create opportunity across our region. Behind every small business is a unique story and a commitment to make a difference in their communities. JJC shares that purpose by creating pathways that help individuals, families and communities thrive.” The EBC supports local entrepreneurs—especially those from underserved or non-traditional backgrounds—to launch, grow, and acquire small businesses through no-cost advice and training. In 2025, the EBC received 275 client inquiries, assisted 10 businesses in securing funding, launched 16 business websites, and launched or supported 26 businesses. The EBC facility includes offices, collaborative space, and a demo kitchen which doubles as a showcase space for culinary presentations and an auditorium-style classroom. The facility also has an on-site restaurant that functions as a complete classroom kitchen space. -30- Print Email Share Tweet