Champion Community Investments (CCI) is a 501(c)3 non-profit corporation founded in 2002 and originally known as Southern Illinois Coal Belt Champion Community INC. CCI is dedicated to regional economic and community development by providing essential capital to start-up and existing small businesses in underserved communities.

To date, CCI has funded more than 200 loans totaling $13M+ to help local entrepreneurs start, grow, and manage their own businesses. Our mission is to ensure that sufficient capital is available to fuel business growth and job creation throughout our region.

Flexible Financing: We offer direct-to-borrower loans and we can partner with commercial banks on participation loan projects with gap or bridge financing. We even help those who might not qualify for traditional “credit elsewhere.”

Service area in Illinois:

We proudly serve the 12-county footprint of Franklin, Gallatin, Hamilton, Hardin, Jackson, Jefferson, Perry, Pope, Randolph, Saline, White, and Williamson

Fill out the short Inquiry Form or call 800-604-1990. No commitment, just a 15-minute chat to see if your project is a fit for our programs.

Once eligibility is confirmed, you will begin preparing your application package. We recommend working with your local Small Business Development Center for free assistance putting your business plan together. CCI Staff will assist in completing a formal loan application and can also help you develop a plan for your project.

Once your package is complete, your project will be presented to the Loan Consideration Committee and the CCI Board. The Board may approve your loan or they may come back to you with further questions or improvements for your project.

To see if your eligible, click the button below and fill out the form. Have questions? Contact us!