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The RISE Grant Program

RISE Small Business Package

The RISE Grant Program

The pandemic has had a significant impact on the Illinois workforce. Small businesses are still struggling to hire qualified employees which has greatly impacted their operations.  Illinois policymakers will need to promptly pass forward-thinking policies to help get folks back into the workforce.

The SBAC is advocating for the passage of The RISE Grant Program - HB4455. This legislation connects those interested working in a new field or industry with small businesses struggling to hire new employees. Importantly, HB4455 offsets the costs associated with on-the-job training at the inception of the employer-employee relationship. The legislation provides funding for $5,000 grants which can be awarded to businesses that (1) retrain and hire employees that lost their jobs or businesses because of the pandemic; (2) employ less than 50 employees; and (3) create a new net job.

Illinois received over $8 billion from the American Rescue Plan Act funds. The SBAC contends a responsible portion of those funds should be used to support small businesses struggling to hire new employees. This legislation allocates $250,000,000 in funding for this new grant program. This legislation connects those interested working in a new field, in part, facilitated by the pandemic, with small businesses that are struggling to hire new employees. HB4455 creates opportunities for small businesses, while helping get people back into the workforce.

 

VIEW THE FULL ILLINOIS HOUSE BILL HERE

Insights Archive

Breaking Barriers: How Tax Incentives Empower Employers to Hire Reentry Populations and Transform Communities

By emma@sbacil.org | September 23, 2024

SBAC INSIGHTS PAGE Breaking Barriers: How Tax Incentives Empower Employers to Hire Reentry Populations and Transform Communities “The passage of the $1,500-$7500 tax incentive for employers to help subsidize hiring people from reentry populations is a great way to help integrate people who are highly motivated populations excited to get their lives back on track…

Saul Ewing: Key Employment Law Changes and Regulatory Developments

By emma@sbacil.org | September 18, 2024

SBAC INSIGHTS PAGE We’re excited to share some insightful articles from our valued partner, Saul Ewing LLP, that cover important developments in employment law and regulatory updates. These resources provide valuable information for our SBAC members and are a great way to stay informed about recent legal changes and their potential impact on your business.…

Don’t Miss the Legislative Panel on September 26th

By emma@sbacil.org | September 17, 2024

SBAC INSIGHTS PAGE The Small Business Advocacy Council and NAWBO Chicago are hosting a special Legislative Panel Discussion on Thursday, September 26th, at 8:30 AM, at Hera Hub Chicago (405 W Superior Street, Room 200C). Our engaging panel will feature prominent state legislators, including State Representative Robyn Gabel, State Senator John Curran, and State Senator…

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