Manley Applauds Investment in Joliet Junior College Small Business Development Center

ROMEOVILLE, Ill. – State Rep. Natalie Manley, D-Joliet, is applauding recent expansions in small business development centers across the state to support businesses seeking grants and other assistance due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Many small businesses throughout our state have suffered from loss of business due to temporary closures as our state continues to fight COVID-19,” said Manley. “Small business development centers, like the location at Joliet Junior College, provide invaluable assistance to small businesses in applying for much-need grants and other relief programs.”

As a part of her continued advocacy on behalf of small business owners, Manley is highlighting the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity’s (DCEO) initiative to invest in Small Business Development Centers (SBDC) around the state, including at Joliet Junior College. New and existing SBDCs are available to support small businesses with applications for new relief programs introduced by the state.

The state of Illinois has continued to proactively invest in SBDCs during the COVID-19 pandemic. New funding builds on the $7.3 million in federal CARES Act funding invested earlier this year to assist with expanded outreach and training for businesses. SBDCs are funded in partnership with the Small Business Administration (SBA), DCEO, universities, community colleges and other local host institutions.

“Small business development centers are an incredibly important resource in the community both for existing businesses, and for entrepreneurs working to launch their own business,” continued Manley. “Ultimately, SBDCs support business owners during difficult times, like the pandemic, and help to create jobs and boost our economy.”