Tarver Highlights $220 Million in Additional Relief Funding for Local Businesses

CHICAGO – State Rep. Curtis J. Tarver II, D-Chicago, is highlighting additional funding for businesses negatively impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic through the reopening of applications for the Business Interruption Grant (BIG) program.

“Small businesses throughout Chicago have suffered major losses in revenue this year due to temporary closures or restrictions put in place caused by the pandemic,” said Tarver. “As we saw earlier in the year, to support business owners who may be struggling, the state is providing millions of dollars in grants to help with these losses.”

Tarver is encouraging Chicago small business owners to take advantage of the second round of BIG funding designed to aid small businesses with grants that can be used to cover expenses like payroll, rent, utilities and other operational costs. Businesses in disproportionately impacted areas will be awarded priority for grant processing. Business owners looking to apply for the grants can visit the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity’s (DCEO) website for more information at https://www2.illinois.gov/dceo/SmallBizAssistance/Pages/C19DisadvantagedBusGrants.aspx.

“Small businesses are the backbone of economic development in our communities. It is imperative that our small businesses and minority owned businesses get the support necessary to stay afloat as they continue to face difficult circumstances,” said Tarver. “This funding is a lifeline our small businesses need and I encourage owners to apply for these grants as soon as possible.”