Vella Encourages Local Restaurants and Bars to Apply for Emergency Aid

ROCKFORD, Ill. – With the COVID-19 pandemic causing hardship for many small businesses, state Rep. Dave Vella, D-Rockford, is highlighting the Restaurant Revitalization Fund, which helps restaurants and other qualified businesses make up COVID-19-related revenue losses.

“During the COVID-19 pandemic, many small businesses have faced massive hardship to keep their doors open through no fault of their own,” said Vella. “We cannot allow these businesses, which give so much to our communities, to bear this burden with little to no assistance.”

Vella is encouraging owners of restaurants, bars, and other food-related businesses, such as inns, breweries, and taverns, to apply for the U.S. Small Business Administration’s (SBA) Restaurant Revitalization Fund, which grants businesses funding equal to their pandemic-related revenue loss up to $10 million. The funds may be used to pay for operating expenses, business supplies, and a variety of other purposes. For more information or to apply, please visit the SBA’s website at sba.gov/funding-programs/loans/covid-19-relief-options/restaurant-revitalization-fund.

As a small business owner, Vella has fought to support business owners throughout the pandemic and beyond. This session, he introduced legislation that protects small businesses during future emergencies by requiring business interruption insurance plans to have their plans cover losses stemming from a forced closure of businesses during a declared emergency by law or government order. Vella also introduced legislation that creates new state and local tax credits for businesses that create jobs in Illinois

“While many have suffered due to the COVID-19 pandemic, small businesses have been hit especially hard,” said Vella. “As we begin rebuilding from the pandemic and its economic impact, I will fight to ensure small businesses have the support they need to thrive.”

For additional information or assistance with any state issues, legislation, or district matters, please contact Vella’s full-time constituent office, located at 4007 N. Mulford Road in Loves Park, at 815-329-6741 or email repdavevella@gmail.com.