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Revitalize Local Businesses and Neighborhoods

Thriving commercial corridors support local communities across Chicago and Cook County.  Prior to the pandemic, however, many corridors struggled.  As Chicago emerges from the pandemic and local communities confront a new economic landscape, a strong coalition of stakeholders is needed to advocate for policies and initiatives which will revitalize, empower and connect commercial corridors and neighborhoods.

  • Advocacy Initiatives:
    • Reduce Commercial Vacancies:  We are advocating for an ordinance that will reduce commercial vacancies in struggling Cook County commercial corridors.  One line and the ordinance
    • Encourage Local Investment: We are researching and formulating policies that will encourage local investment in local businesses and neighborhoods
    • Reduce Red Tape:  We are formulating policies to reduce red tape which impacts small businesses in struggling commercial corridors

Check out the full Neighborhood Revitalization Coalition (NRC) website here.

Insights Archive

New PPP Rules for Sole Proprietors and Businesses with 20 or fewer Employees

By growthzone | February 25, 2021

New PPP Rules for Sole Proprietors and Businesses with 20 or fewer Employees From February 24th to March 9th, the Small Business Administration will accept applications for PPP loans for sole proprietors and businesses with fewer than 20 employees. The move is meant to make it easier for businesses with few or no employees –…

ACTION CALL! Legislation To Get People Back To Work

By growthzone | February 19, 2021

Legislation To Get People Back To Work State Representative Gong-Gershowitz has filed the RISE Act.  This legislation will get people back to work and support small businesses.  The RISE Act (House Bill 0801) creates a tax incentive for businesses that retrain and hire employees who have lost their jobs or businesses because of the pandemic.…

Business Interruption Grant Program

By growthzone | February 15, 2021

IL – Many small and local businesses were devastated by the pandemic but only 20% of applicants received Illinois Business Interruption Grants.  Watch coverage of SBAC President Elliot Richardson testifying before the Illinois Senate Commerce Commission about the need for an improved and more inclusive process in the future.   Please translate this page to…

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