Ozark Koala Ecosystem Services, LLC (OKES) is a Carbondale-based company specializing in ecological restoration, invasive species control, prescribed fire management, and forest management. With more than 15 years of experience, OKES partners with private landowners, state, and federal organizations to implement effective land management and ecological restoration strategies across Southern Illinois.
After facing post-COVID challenges and seeking new growth opportunities, OKES turned to the Illinois APEX Accelerator at SIU for support. Through hands-on assistance from Center Director Brenda Henderson, the team received guidance to improve their bidding strategies, expand BidBuy codes, and navigate SAM.gov registration—key steps that helped them secure more government contracts.
That partnership paid off. With APEX support, OKES earned a $2 million master contract, ensuring projects through 2026 and allowing the company to expand. What began as a struggle to maintain their workforce evolved into a story of growth and stability.
“Brenda and the Illinois APEX Accelerator at SIU have helped our business grow in ways we never thought possible. Their guidance improved our success in government contracting and provided us with high-value opportunities.”
As a tenant in the SIU Business Incubator, OKES also benefits from the full suite of services offered through the program—support that strengthens their operational capacity and connects them to a community of innovative businesses and people.
Looking ahead, OKES remains committed to delivering high-quality ecosystem services throughout Southern Illinois. Their long-term vision includes expanding operations and generating enough revenue—or transitioning to nonprofit status—to provide employees with better benefits and wages.
This success demonstrates how collaboration within the SIU Innovation and Economic Development ecosystem helps regional contractors grow, secure contracts, and create lasting impact.
Learn more about Ozark Koala Ecosystem Services:
www.ozarkkoalaco.com