Salukis Build Here is a new initiative dedicated to supporting alumni of Southern Illinois University Carbondale who want to start, relocate, or expand a business in Southern Illinois. We're here to connect you with communities, resources, and collaborative opportunities.
Alumni-owned businesses located in Carbondale, Illinois.
Alumni own businesses in the lower 17 counties of Southern Illinois.
Our Mission
To celebrate and empower SIU alumni-led businesses already thriving across Southern Illinois, and to invite more Salukis to bring their ventures home through partnership, promotion, and regional collaboration.
William Lo Executive Director Carbondale Chamber of Commerce
Deb Barnett Executive Director SI Now
Why Salukis Build Here
- Reconnect and invest locally. We believe alumni have a vital role to play in the economic vitality of Southern Illinois.
- Amplify impact. With nearly 150 alumni-owned businesses in Carbondale alone, and over 1,000 across the region, the entrepreneurial footprint is already significant.
- Collaborative ecosystem. This is more than branding -- it's an alliance dedicated to fostering growth and prosperity.
What We Do
- Encouragement and Invitation. Whether you're already a business owner or exploring opportunities, Salukis Build Here encourages you to consider Carbondale or Southern Illinois for your venture.
- Community Support and Visibility. We highlight stories of alumni-led businesses, connect entrepreneurs with regional partners, and raise awareness of local opportunities.
- Events and Networking. Gatherings, such as celebrations, vendor fairs, and networking events, help to bring together alumni business owners, prospective entrepreneurs, and community partners.
Partners and Stakeholders
- SIU Alumni Association
- SIU Foundation
- SI Now
- City of Carbondale
- Carbondale Main Street
- Carbondale Chamber of Commerce
Together, these partners bring resources, local insight, and institutional support to advance regional economic development.
Molly Hudgins '97 Executive Director SIU Alumni Association
Steve Mitchell Economic Development Director City of Carbondale
Get Involved / Join us
Are you a Saluki entrepreneur or alumni business owner? Here's how to plug in:
- Reach out to share your business story -- you could be featured, amplified, or connected to other local resources.
- Consider relocating or expanding your business in Southern Illinois with the support of our network.
- Attend our events. Meet fellow entrepreneurs, community leaders, and partners.
- Partner with us -- whether as a supporting organization, sponsor, or collaborator.
We can build a strong, more vibrant future for Southern Illinois through the ingenuity, dedication, and community spirit of SIU alumni!
