Illinois SBDC Advisor Named 2026 State Star
Justin Bergman of Sauk Valley Community College was honored for his contributions to the state's small business community.
Updated on Oct. 6, 2026 in Business — General
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The National Association of Small Business Development Centers (SBDC) recognized Justin Bergman as the 2026 Illinois State Star. Bergman currently serves as the director of the Illinois SBDC at Sauk Valley Community College.
Why it matters
Bergman was selected for his leadership and commitment to building community partnerships that support local entrepreneurs. The recognition highlights the role of SBDC advisors in connecting business owners with critical financial resources and planning tools.
The 2026 Illinois State Star designation is part of a national recognition program honoring individual SBDC professionals. The center at Sauk Valley Community College remains one of several statewide entities providing no-cost advising to regional entrepreneurs.
The players
Justin Bergman
Director of the Illinois Small Business Development Center at Sauk Valley Community College and recipient of the 2026 Illinois State Star award.
National Association of Small Business Development Centers
A national organization that manages the SBDC network and honors outstanding professionals through its annual State Star program.
The details
As director of the Illinois SBDC at Sauk Valley Community College, Bergman facilitates one-on-one business advising, market research, and strategic planning. His office acts as a hub for local business growth by coordinating collaboration between entrepreneurs, local lenders, municipalities, and regional chambers of commerce.
Timeline
Sept. 29 through Oct. 1, 2026: Bergman attended the America's SBDC annual training event in Atlanta.
October 6, 2026: Official publication of the award recognition.
Market Landscape
This award highlights the ongoing execution of the nationwide small business support infrastructure originally authorized by the Small Business Act of 1953. The recognition serves as a marker for the operational standards maintained within the state-level advisory network.
Entrepreneurs should review the services offered by their local SBDC to determine if they can leverage no-cost market research or financial advising. These centers remain a primary contact point for connecting with local lenders and municipal economic development resources.
The takeaway
The recognition of Bergman underscores the value of engaging with regional business advisory centers to refine growth strategies. Operators should identify their nearest SBDC location to access formal planning, research, and capital-access assistance.
Further reading
For more information on the resources available to your company, visit the Business — General section of our site.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Shaw Local.
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In your area, do you believe local small business development programs effectively support your community's economy?
