Small business owners in southern Illinois say they're shocked to learn one of their resources may soon have to close its doors.
SIU's Small Business Development Center, which receives its funding from the state, will cease operation at the end of March because none of that money has arrived due to the budget impasse.
Tom Harness owns Harness Digital Marketing in Herrin. He says losing SBDC hurts the region.
"They've always been supportive, helped my business. And for this to happen, it's just an absolute blow. It's kind of like losing your best friend, because they've always been so supportive for me."
Harness says the SBDC's mission is to help businesses get started, in an effort to boost the regional economy. He says lawmakers and Governor Bruce Rauner need to put aside their differences to save programs like this.
Illinois is now in its eighth month without a state budget. Governor Rauner will present his proposal for next year's state budget next Wednesday in Springfield.