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The small business community was increasingly optimistic this summer. The pandemic was waning, restrictions disappeared and customers were coming back in droves.
Vaccinated individuals gathered without masks. While many businesses struggled to find qualified employees, their prospects for recovery looked good.
Then the Delta variant came and COVID cases started to significantly increase. That optimism that defined the small business community has been replaced with concern and uncertainty.
How significant will the spike in Illinois be? What, if any, mitigation measures will be put into place? How will the resurgence of the pandemic impact consumer behavior?
The trajectory of the pandemic may shift again before this article is published. It seems the only thing that remains certain during this pandemic is uncertainty.
Policymakers must be ready to support the small business community should the new surge threaten the viability of small businesses. This includes promptly getting Back to Business grants to as many struggling small businesses as possible. Policymakers have allocated about $300 million for these grants. The onset of the Delta variant makes it crucial to swiftly provide this funding to as many small businesses as possible.
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R.I.S.E. Act – A Word from RISE Fest Performers
COVID19 has had a devastating impact on many gig workers and independent contractors. During our SBAC Rise Fest, we had a chance to speak candidly with our local performers on how they’ve been affected by the pandemic. They explain the loss in their community, in their work, and how their jobs have shifted. Their stories…
Recommendation for Legislation on Minority Contracting
Illinois has failed to ensure that Black owned businesses procure their fair share of government contracts and revenue from government projects. Loopholes must be closed and reforms be made now! Read the SBAC’s recommendations for legislation to reform the process. Read the Recommendations here
SBAC and Fifth Third Bank Present: Post Election Commentary by Jeff Korzenik
A Post Election Commentary Presented by: Jeff Korzenik Managing Director, Chief Investment Strategist, Fifth Third Investment Management Group Discussion Points: Post-Election Policy and Market Implications Current State of the U.S. Economy: Differences and Similarities with Past Downturns The Impact of Monetary and Fiscal Intervention Health Risks and Unintended Consequences The Post Pandemic Economy: Disrupted Industries, Disrupted…
