Chris Youngmark

Biography

Chris began his service with the Illinois SBDC as the Rural Outreach Coordinator, assisting businesses in the areas of pandemic support funding and e-commerce development. Chris is also a DCEO Community Navigator, among a network of business advisers providing grant and technical assistance to businesses in 6 local counties. As the SBDC Assistant Director and a Business Advisor, Chris enjoys learning, sharing, and connecting with entrepreneurs and small businesses in all stages of growth and development. He regularly collaborates with resource partners at local, state, and federal levels to support entrepreneurs and economic development in the region.

Formerly the Guest Services Manager at the Children’s Discovery Museum in Normal, Illinois, Chris also has years of experience in construction project management. He brings to the Centerfirst-hand knowledge and experience as an entrepreneur himself, having founded NowTheyDeliver.com and The Farm Sitter LLC. He serves on the Tazewell County Emergency Management Agency (EMA) and his local community as a volunteer firefighter and training officer of the Deer Creek Fire Department.

Chris earned a Bachelor of Science in Industrial Technology and Construction Management from Illinois State University. He is a Certified Business Development Advisor and member of the Illinois Entrepreneurship and Small Business Growth Association (IESBGA) and is Certified with GrowthWheel International, Inc.SBDC services are confidential and provided at no cost.