Back to Business Grant Program
AUG 13th - The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity launched the Back to Business grant program for struggling small businesses on Wednesday. On August 12th, the SBAC participated in a joint Illinois Senate hearing to learn more about the program. We explained how important it is for the program to be transparent and promptly provide funds to as many small businesses as possible. We appreciated the opportunity to engage with Senators and DCEO on this crucial grant program.
Please visit DCEO’s website to learn more about the program. We are glad to answer questions as well. https://www2.illinois.gov/dceo/SmallBizAssistance/Pages/B2B.aspx
The SBAC will be closely watching how the program is implemented.
Legalization of Sandwich Signs to Help Local Businesses
After persistent support from the SBAC to legalize sandwich signs, in June 2021, Chicago Alderman voted to adopt a new policy on sandwich signs, which will go into effect NEXT WEEK. On March 1, 2022, Chicago small businesses can officially use “A-frame” or sandwich signs on the sidewalk to drive foot traffic into their stores.…
REVITALIZATION IN THE NEWS: Two Locally Owned Grocery Stores Underway on West Side
This comes after decades of disinvestment. After decades of disinvestment, two new grocery stores are being built on Chicago’s West Side – something residents have long awaited as other grocery store chains close up shop. The SBAC and our robust collation of partners are committed to revitalizing, empowering, and connecting local business districts across…
OpEd: Crains Chicago Business
February 08, 2022 11:34 AM A Labor Shortage Creates an Opportunity to Help the Homeless Illinois politicians should engage those leading the fight against homelessness and also engage small-business advocates to explore how to prepare homeless individuals for a return to the workforce. NELI VAZQUEZ ROWLAND ELLIOT RICHARDSON Read the FULL OpEd HERE SPONSORS…
