Locally Owned and Operated

As we spotlight Greater Peoria’s small business community, we are thrilled to partner with the Turner Center for Entrepreneurship at Bradley University. This not-for-profit program provides free, confidential business counseling and a variety of training and educational activities for prospective entrepreneurs and existing small businesses of all kinds.

This year marks the Turner Center’s first-ever awards ceremony recognizing the extraordinary success of clients in ten categories. Each has received valuable assistance from the Center in one form or another—from reviewing business plans and securing bank loans to identifying market opportunities and landing government contracts. Reading their profiles, it’s clear how important this resource has been to growing our local businesses.

Most of us appreciate the importance of small businesses to the regional economy—providing jobs, driving growth and innovation, and stimulating economic development. They keep disposable income and tax dollars circulating locally, supporting our schools, roadways and municipal services. Small business owners are invested in their community. They actively support civic organizations and give back to local nonprofits and charitable groups. They are a critical piece of our civic fabric and cultural identity.

I’m reminded of the theme song from the classic TV sitcom Cheers: “Sometimes you want to go where everybody knows your name…” Small, local businesses can provide personalized customer service, building relationships in a way that national chains cannot. They can engage directly with their clients and audiences, and have the ability to innovate easily and quickly. They live locally, and their focus is local.

As a proud small business, locally owned and operated, Peoria Magazines lives and breathes Greater Peoria. We have been a trusted local resource for more than 30 years, telling the stories of our community and showcasing what makes our region great. And we are excited to announce the launch of a new service to the community!

309Tix is a new online ticketing portal dedicated to local community events and powered by Peoria Magazines. We partner with local businesses and organizations to offer a convenient platform for online ticket sales—and to keep dollars local. We offer local customer service and serve as a local marketing partner for events ranging from small classes and workshops to large festivals and fundraisers. Learn more—and check out our initial slate of events—at 309tix.com.

Are you planning an event that requires online ticketing or registration? Call (309) 683-3060 or email info@309tix.com to schedule your free demo today! PM