Novus – Where Entrepreneurs Connect

Novus was started by a handful of Central Illinois entrepreneurs in 2004 to help entrepreneurs connect with one another.  It has been found that while the Peoria area has many networking opportunities for established businesses, a real need exists for our community to support those brave souls who dare to step out on their own and take charge of their own futures.

This is where Novus comes in.  We want to provide a place for entrepreneurs to receive the help they need so that their dreams will become a reality.  Our mission is to foster and facilitate greater entrepreneurial success. 

Novus isn't membership-based—and there is no annual fee, only a $10-per-event cover charge. Novus is open to everyone. You have a 'standing invitation' to Novus if you have started a business or are thinking about becoming an entrepreneur—all you need to do is show up. (Registration is requested, but not required.)

Entrepreneurs need resources, they need knowledge, they need to cultivate supportive relationships with others walking the same path.  We’ve got you covered.  Novus is where you can meet, brainstorm, learn about new ideas, funding, technologies and resources and generally support each other.

We meet every other month at the Peoria NEXT Innovation Center (unless otherwise indicated). Our networking events include an information component provided by either a guest speaker, usually an entrepreneur, or a panel discussion, with plenty of time to make connections with others and share ideas.