What Small Businesses Need to Know Webinar

This webinar provides a practical overview of grant opportunities administered by the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) that may be relevant to small businesses. Participants will learn how to find current and past DCEO grants, understand e......More

This webinar provides a practical overview of grant opportunities administered by the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) that may be relevant to small businesses. Participants will learn how to find current and past DCEO grants, understand eligibility requirements, and interpret key grant documents such as Notices of Funding Opportunity (NOFOs). While grants are not always open for small businesses, this session will help attendees better assess whether a DCEO grant is a good fit when opportunities arise. TOPICS OF DISCUSSION: How to Find and Evaluate DCEO Grants An overview of where DCEO grants are posted, how to determine relevance, and what eligibility criteria to review first. Understanding a NOFO and Key Grant Requirements A breakdown of common NOFO sections, match requirements, and compliance considerations businesses often overlook. What to Expect After You Apply A high-level look at application timelines, award decisions, and grant administration responsibilities if funded. OUR SPEAKER/s: Name: Lauren Gibson, AICP, has been with the IL Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) since 2021, and has been the Senior Regional Economic Development Manager for the North Central Region since July 2024. She began her career as an intern with the DCEO while completing her Masters of Public Administration from the University of Illinois at Springfield in 2014. In the decade since, she has gained experience working in economic development and planning at both the municipal and county levels, leading projects related to business attraction and expansion, historic preservation, comprehensive and neighborhood planning, and data collection and analysis. She is passionate about bridging the gap between the worlds of planning and economic development as they share the same ultimate goal of improving the communities we call home. Mark Adams is the North Central Region Manager for DCEO’s Office of Regional Economic Development (aka Team RED). Originally born in Easton, Pennsylvania, Adams moved to Bloomington-Normal in 2014. He obtained his Master’s Degree in Urban Planning and Policy from the University of Illinois-Chicago in May 2018, and since then has worked for community development organizations, including Mid-Central Community Action and McLean County Regional Planning Commission, before finally joining “Team RED” in January 2025. He is passionate about helping small businesses become more financially stable and independent and is driven to help people where they are at. When he is not reading a book in his free time, he is likely playing with his two Boston Terriers Luna and Phoebe or hanging out with his wife.

https://Bradley.zoom.us/meeting/register/O-fkIarJSPGbzozZJs00qg

Butter Bell Clay Hand Building Class

Learn how to create your own ceramic butter bell in this guided hand-building class at The Clay Den. Butter bells are designed to keep butter fresh and spreadable at room temperature, and in this workshop you’ll build a functional, food-safe piece that’s as bea......More

Learn how to create your own ceramic butter bell in this guided hand-building class at The Clay Den. Butter bells are designed to keep butter fresh and spreadable at room temperature, and in this workshop you’ll build a functional, food-safe piece that’s as beautiful as it is useful. We’ll walk you step by step through the process of shaping both parts of the butter bell to ensure a proper fit and function. After class, you’ll choose your glaze color, and we’ll handle the firing. Your finished piece will be glazed, fired, and ready for pickup in approximately 3 weeks. No prior clay experience needed — just come ready to get your hands dirty and make something you’ll use every day. 🎨 All materials, glazing, and firing included 🧈 Functional, food-safe ceramic piece 🕒 Ready for pickup in about 3 weeks Perfect for butter lovers, bakers, or anyone who appreciates handmade kitchen essentials. Rescheduling/Cancellation Policy: If you are no longer able to attend your reserved time-slot, a written request must be submitted via email to [email protected] In order to receive a class credit voucher, the request must be submitted in advance. Requests made within less than 48 hours prior to the class it will not be honored. We reserve the right to reschedule/cancel any class.

The Clay Den 2409 Washington Rd Washington, IL 61571

Hope & Home - A Celebration of America's 250th

Celebrate America’s 250th anniversary with Hope & Home, an inspiring evening of music exploring heritage, connection, and possibility. Experience the noble fanfare of Copland’s Fanfare for the Common Man, the sweeping vision of Dvorák’s Symphony No. 9, “From the New Wor......More

Celebrate America’s 250th anniversary with Hope & Home, an inspiring evening of music exploring heritage, connection, and possibility. Experience the noble fanfare of Copland’s Fanfare for the Common Man, the sweeping vision of Dvorák’s Symphony No. 9, “From the New World”, and the emotional depth of Dvorák’s Cello Concerto, performed by acclaimed cellist Joshua Roman. This performance features a special collaboration with the Youth Symphony of Youth Music Illinois, honoring 60 years of shaping young artists. Join us for a powerful musical journey that celebrates the meeting of cultures, the joy of shared expression, and the enduring power of music to connect hearts.

Five Points Washington 360 North Wilmor Road Washington, IL, 61571

AARP Safe Driver Course

If you are 50 and over, sign up to attend the AARP Safe Driver Course. Participants must attend both 4-hour sessions to receive a certificate that can provide a discount on car insurance. The cost is $20 for AARP members and $25 for non-members. Ages: 50+

Washington District Library 380 N. Wilmor Rd., Washington, IL 61571, Meeting Room

AARP Safe Driver Course

If you are 50 and over, sign up to attend the AARP Safe Driver Course. Participants must attend both 4-hour sessions to receive a certificate that can provide a discount on car insurance. The cost is $20 for AARP members and $25 for non-members. Ages: 50+

Washington District Library 380 N. Wilmor Rd., Washington, IL 61571, Meeting Room

Let's Play Pickleball

We’re hitting the courts every Tuesday night for good vibes, fast rallies, and even better company. Whether you’re a pro or just here for the fun, you belong on the court! The Game Plan: When: Every Tuesday Time: 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM Where: ......More

We’re hitting the courts every Tuesday night for good vibes, fast rallies, and even better company. Whether you’re a pro or just here for the fun, you belong on the court! The Game Plan: When: Every Tuesday Time: 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM Where: St. Mark's Family Life Center

St. Marks Lutheran Church Family Life Center 200 S Main St. Washington, IL 61571

Enhancing Customer Engagement with AI: Personalization and Predictive Analytics - SMART BRAND SYSTEM

From email to ecommerce, AI is now the engine behind deeper personalization. Learn how to use AI to create tailored experiences, anticipate needs, and drive conversions without guesswork. What You’ll Learn: * How AI tools personalize experiences at scale * Using custome......More

From email to ecommerce, AI is now the engine behind deeper personalization. Learn how to use AI to create tailored experiences, anticipate needs, and drive conversions without guesswork. What You’ll Learn: * How AI tools personalize experiences at scale * Using customer data to predict behavior and drive timing * Ethical use of personalization in small business * Integrating AI into CRM and content delivery * Boosting retention and conversion with minimal manual work Built for: • Marketing managers, small business owners, and service providers who want deeper engagement without spending all day in their inbox Deliverables: ? AI Personalization Playbook ? Predictive Engagement Flowchart ? Data Readiness Checklist ? CRM Integration Tip Sheet ? Copy Templates for High-Converting Outreach Presenter: Maria Elena Duron helps small business owners, content creators, and service providers grow with clarity, visibility, and smart AI strategy. As a Chief AI Officer and nationally recognized Growth with Google Coach, she’s trained over 18,000 businesses to turn digital confusion into systems that get them seen, trusted, and chosen.

https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/3-_mDIAASiu8mzZUaWAdDQ

DIY Candle Making with Farm to Wick

oin us for an evening at Tres Rojas Winery making your own custom candle with Farm to Wick. Class fee is $30 and includes instructions and all candle making supplies! Fee is paid during registration process with PayPal or Credit Card. Class is an hour with additiona......More

oin us for an evening at Tres Rojas Winery making your own custom candle with Farm to Wick. Class fee is $30 and includes instructions and all candle making supplies! Fee is paid during registration process with PayPal or Credit Card. Class is an hour with additional time for your candle to set. Spend a creative evening with friends making a candle from start to finish! It is sure to be a great time! Reservations are required, and SPACE IS LIMITED!! Sign up: https://farmtowick.com/pages/event-sign-up

Tres Rojas Winery 1774 E Cruger Rd Washington, IL 61571

‘Til Death Do Us Part, Murder Mystery Dinner

Murder Mystery Dinner Hosted by Five Points Washington February 14, 2026 6-10 pm Live at Five Points Event Center Tickets are $50 per person. Dinner will be hosted by Bernardi’s Live Music will be performed by Matt Eckberg Cash Bar will be available th......More

Murder Mystery Dinner Hosted by Five Points Washington February 14, 2026 6-10 pm Live at Five Points Event Center Tickets are $50 per person. Dinner will be hosted by Bernardi’s Live Music will be performed by Matt Eckberg Cash Bar will be available throughout the evening   The birds are chirping, the sun is shining, but the wedding bells aren’t ringing for this not-so-happy couple when a member of the wedding party is murdered! With a raging bridezilla and an unenthused groom on the scene, it may be happily never after in this nuptial nightmare. Trade clues with your guests and help the hapless couple figure out whodunnit so they can say I do before the wedding hour passes them by! The bride and groom aren’t picky, so you can wear just about whatever you’d like. In fact, we encourage you to wear your own wedding dress or the most ridiculous wedding attire you can come up with. It’ll make their special day that much more special, so long as they actually get the chance to walk down the aisle!   Questions? Contact Paige Wise at (309) 444-8222 ext.42 or [email protected]

Five Points Washington 360 N Wilmor Rd, Washington, IL 61571

Laugh Your Heart Out Comedy Show

Looking for that perfect gift? Give the gift of Laughter! From the creators of Bad Momz of Comedy, and some of Chicago’s best, five comedians are bringing the goods for one night only. Laugh Your Heart Out!! Saturday, February 14th at 8 PM. Doors are at 7pm. Tasty eats ......More

Looking for that perfect gift? Give the gift of Laughter! From the creators of Bad Momz of Comedy, and some of Chicago’s best, five comedians are bringing the goods for one night only. Laugh Your Heart Out!! Saturday, February 14th at 8 PM. Doors are at 7pm. Tasty eats will be available from Canterbury Creations. Come early and settle in for a great night of laughter, no matter your Valentine’s Day status, there is something for everyone! Tickets are $50 through December 31st, price increases to $60 on January 1st. Tickets on sale through our website ONLY! www.tinyurl.com/ComedyatQuail Online Store

Quail Meadows Golf Course 2215 Centennial Dr Washington, IL 61571

Stitch & Sip

Join us every 3rd Tuesday of the month for a relaxed morning of crocheting, knitting, cross-stitching, embroidery, or any thread-based craft. Bring your current project from home and spend time with fellow crafters. Stitch at your own pace while you sip on a free cup o......More

Join us every 3rd Tuesday of the month for a relaxed morning of crocheting, knitting, cross-stitching, embroidery, or any thread-based craft. Bring your current project from home and spend time with fellow crafters. Stitch at your own pace while you sip on a free cup of coffee or tea. All skill levels are welcome. Ages:18+

Washington District Library 380 N Wilmor Rd, Washington, IL, United States, Illinois 61571

Let's Play Pickleball

We’re hitting the courts every Tuesday night for good vibes, fast rallies, and even better company. Whether you’re a pro or just here for the fun, you belong on the court! The Game Plan: When: Every Tuesday Time: 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM Where: ......More

We’re hitting the courts every Tuesday night for good vibes, fast rallies, and even better company. Whether you’re a pro or just here for the fun, you belong on the court! The Game Plan: When: Every Tuesday Time: 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM Where: St. Mark's Family Life Center

St. Marks Lutheran Church Family Life Center 200 S Main St. Washington, IL 61571

Starting Your Business in Illinois

This workshop is for aspiring entrepreneurs who want to learn all the components of how to start a successful business in Illinois. Get a realistic view of the requirements to start a business and the resources available to support your new venture. While attending this......More

This workshop is for aspiring entrepreneurs who want to learn all the components of how to start a successful business in Illinois. Get a realistic view of the requirements to start a business and the resources available to support your new venture. While attending this no cost 2-hour workshop, you will learn how to get your business name registered, where to obtain a tax ID number, which legal form to choose, business planning, taxes, financing options and much more. After attending the workshop, our team of certified business advisors are available to work with you, one-on-one, to navigate the process and help you succeed! This workshop is sponsored by the Illinois Small Business Development Center at Bradley University and co-sponsored by Morton Community Bank. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email.

Peoria Next Innovation Center, 801 W Main St, Peoria, IL

AI Strategy = Trust Strategy - Smart Brand System

AI isn’t a side project anymore-it’s your operating system. In this session, we’ll unpack what it means to build an AI strategy that scales with trust, transparency, and transformation. Whether you’re just getting started or looking to deepen your AI use, this session s......More

AI isn’t a side project anymore-it’s your operating system. In this session, we’ll unpack what it means to build an AI strategy that scales with trust, transparency, and transformation. Whether you’re just getting started or looking to deepen your AI use, this session shows how to do it responsibly, powerfully, and profitably. What You’ll Learn: * Why every AI strategy needs trust as a foundation-not a follow-up * How to identify weak links in your current systems and signals * The difference between AI features and AI infrastructure-and what small businesses actually need * How to communicate your AI use clearly so customers and partners say yes, not “no thanks” * Real-world examples of trust-driven AI strategies that improve operations and visibility Built for: • Small business owners, service providers, and consultants who want to lead with clarity and build AI strategies that go the distance Deliverables: ? AI Readiness Diagnostic PDF ? Trust Mapping Worksheet ? Signal Clarity Checklist ? Communication Templates for Transparent AI Use ? Bonus Guide: 3 Visibility Wins That Come From Responsible AI Presenter: Maria Elena Duron helps small business owners, content creators, and service providers grow with clarity, visibility, and smart AI strategy. As a Chief AI Officer and nationally recognized Growth with Google Coach, she’s trained over 18,000 businesses to turn digital confusion into systems that get them seen, trusted, and chosen.

https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/RFcRz_YKQHSK7cUMkoAtEw

Winter Open Gym

Register Here: ......More

Register Here: https://www.signupgenius.com/.../70A084AADA722ABFD0... Burn off energy, build skills and have a blast! Join us for Open Gym all month long! Kids can jump, tumble, and explore the gym in a safe, supervised environment. Who? Kids six years old or older. No experience necessary. Cost? $20.00 per child. Cash only, paid at the door. Register: Use the link below to sign-up ahead of time, or just pop in that day. However, we do need at least 10 kids registered 24 hours ahead of time to hold the open gym. We will post updates on Facebook. Why? A great way to move on chilly days Skill building in a fun, unstructured setting Supervised by trained Gym Corner staff Perfect for friends, siblings & active kiddos!

Gym Corner Gymnastics and Tumbling 208 Muller Rd. Washington, IL 61571

Panther Social - Disco Party

 Get ready to boogie, Washington!  Join us for the annual Panther Social, adults-only fundraiser benefiting Washington District 52, and this time, we’re throwing it back with a full-on DISCO PARTY!  Break out your sequins, metallics, platforms, and your best “Sat......More

 Get ready to boogie, Washington!  Join us for the annual Panther Social, adults-only fundraiser benefiting Washington District 52, and this time, we’re throwing it back with a full-on DISCO PARTY!  Break out your sequins, metallics, platforms, and your best “Saturday Night Fever” moves… because we’re transforming Five Points into a dance floor packed with sparkle, music, and a whole lot of fun. ⸻  What to Expect  Catered Dinner  Live DJ playing disco vibes + all genres of dance & party music  Beer pong and cornhole  Cash bar  Silent auction and raffles  A night out where you DON’T have to wipe faces, settle arguments, or tell anyone to “stop running!”  And remember, you do NOT need to have a student at D52 to join the fun. Bring your friends, your coworkers, your neighbors… everyone is invited to dance the night away! ⸻  Tickets $52 per person or $400/table of 8 Includes:  Dinner  All games + entertainment  A night full of unforgettable memories! ⸻  Event Details Saturday, February 21 5:30 PM Five Points Washington Disco attire encouraged 

Five Points Washington 360 N Wilmor Rd. Washington, IL 61571

Rage With Clay

Had a long week? Feeling stressed, burnt out, or just need to hit reset? Rage With Clay is a hands-on clay experience designed to help you let it out—no experience needed and perfection absolutely not required. This is not your typical pottery class. You’ll be enco......More

Had a long week? Feeling stressed, burnt out, or just need to hit reset? Rage With Clay is a hands-on clay experience designed to help you let it out—no experience needed and perfection absolutely not required. This is not your typical pottery class. You’ll be encouraged to slam, rip, rebuild, and reshape clay in a supportive, judgment-free environment. Ugly is encouraged. Messy is welcome. Laughing is expected. You’ll leave feeling lighter—and with a piece you choose to keep (or not). Therapy is expensive. This is cheaper. 🧱 How the Class Is Structured Skill Level: Beginner-friendly Warm-Up Release: We start by moving clay—slabbing, ripping, and breaking it apart. No pressure to make anything “good.” Break & Rebuild: You’ll quickly build a piece, intentionally take it apart, then rebuild using what’s left. This is where the stress melts away. Choose Your Path: In the final portion, you can either refine one piece to keep or continue breaking and rebuilding just for the experience. Wrap-Up: You’ll choose up to one finished piece to be fired and glazed. Anything else will be reclaimed—no guilt, no waste. ✨ What’s Included Clay, tools, instruction One finished piece fired & glazed Apron provided Rescheduling/Cancellation Policy: If you are no longer able to attend your reserved time-slot, a written request must be submitted via email to [email protected] In order to receive a class credit voucher, the request must be submitted in advance. Requests made within less than 48 hours prior to the class it will not be honored. We reserve the right to reschedule/cancel any class.

The Clay Den 2409 Washington Rd Washington, IL 61571

Lego Club

Use library-supplied Legos to build original creations on the last Tuesday of the month. Creations will be displayed for a whole month in the children's department! Ages: 5-12

Washington District Library Main Library Meeting Room