What is EP!C?
EP!C, originally incorporated in 1957 as the Peoria Council for Mentally Retarded Children, has evolved into a comprehensive support and services organization dedicated to empowering individuals with developmental disabilities and their families. Founded in 1950 by Peoria-area parents, the organization, now known as Empower People, Inspiring Capabilities (EP!C), has a long history of providing unprecedented education and opportunity. Under the leadership of its first Executive Director, Barbara Smiley, EP!C developed a mission-driven approach to helping individuals discover their potential. The organization pioneered Illinois's first early intervention program and expanded its service portfolio to include residential care, respite services, and specialized programming, transitioning from large facilities to smaller, community-based homes that prioritize personalized care and integration. Today, EP!C serves over 600 people, establishing itself as a trusted regional provider.
How much funding has EP!C raised?
EP!C has raised a total of $2M across 1 funding round:
Debt
$2M
Debt (2020): $2M with participation from PPP
Key Investors in EP!C
PPP
Public-Private Partnership
What's next for EP!C?
The recent major strategic investment indicates a phase of significant growth and potential expansion for EP!C. This capital infusion is likely to fuel further development of its comprehensive support services, potentially enabling the organization to reach more individuals and families. Strategic partnerships and enhanced program offerings may be on the horizon as EP!C continues its mission to empower people and inspire capabilities within the developmental disability community. The focus on enterprise-level funding suggests a mature operational stage, poised for impactful scaling.
See full EP!C company page
