Mussman Highlights Grant Relief for Small Businesses Impacted by Pandemic

SCHAUMBURG, Ill. – To connect business owners that have been hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic with critical relief, state Rep. Michelle Mussman, D-Schaumburg, is highlighting the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity’s (DCEO) new Business Interruption Grant (BIG) Program.

“Business owners throughout our state have been struggling in recent months as many have been forced to temporarily close in order to help stop the spread of COVID-19,” said Mussman. “To help small businesses stay afloat, the DCEO is offering new grants to help bars, restaurants, salons and other businesses.”

Mussman is highlighting the DCEO’s new BIG Program, extending critical relief for business sectors that have been hit hard by state closures due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Applications must be submitted by Tuesday, July 7 at 5 p.m. The BIG Program includes support for:
• Bars and Restaurants – $20 million for bars and restaurants unable to offer outside, patio, and/or “al fresco” service, providing 1,000 grants of up to $20,000;
• Barbershops and Salons – $10 million for barbershops and salons, providing 1,000 grants of $10,000 each; and
• Gyms and Fitness Centers – $10 million for gyms and fitness centers that have lost significant revenue due to COVID-19, providing 500 grants of $20,000 each.

More details and the online application for the BIG Program can also be found at https://www2.illinois.gov/dceo/SmallBizAssistance/Pages/C19DisadvantagedBusGrants.aspx.

“I urge business owners that have been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic to apply for the BIG Program before applications close next week,” said Mussman. “Stabilizing our economy, supporting local businesses and providing relief for working families continue to be top priorities of mine, and I will continue working to connect local businesses and residents with resources they need to regain their footing as we continue to battle the COVID-19 pandemic.”