Vella Highlights Aid for Small Businesses

ROCKFORD, Ill. – In order to ensure small businesses are getting the support they need, state Rep. Dave Vella, D-Rockford, is highlighting the Back to Business Grant program, which provides financial support to businesses who have been financially impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.

“No business deserves to have to close their doors because of a situation that was far beyond their control,” said Vella. “Small businesses are the lifeblood of our local economy, and the Back to Business program is an important part of ensuring that our local businesses are able to survive the pandemic and continue to be an important part of our local community.”

Due to the passage of the Vella-supported state budget, $250 million in grants will be available to small businesses to be used to offset losses due to the pandemic. Applications for grants will be open now until Oct. 11. Grants will generally range from $5,000 to $150,000, and priority will be given to hard-hit industries and disproportionately impacted areas. Small business owners who wish to apply or learn more about the eligibility requirements for the Back to Business Grant should visit https://www2.illinois.gov/dceo/SmallBizAssistance/Pages/B2B.aspx.

Supporting the creation of the Back to Business grants is just one way that Vella has worked to help small business. During the legislative session earlier this year, he passed legislation requiring state institutions to purchase American flags that are made in America, not overseas.  He also helped pass legislation that allows for the waiving of county and municipal fees for small businesses to help them recover from the effects of COVID-19.

“As we continue to work to recover from the COVID-19 pandemic, it is imperative that we are not leaving any small businesses behind,” said Vella. “The value that small businesses bring to the communities they serve cannot be replaced, and I will continue to work in Springfield to address the current and future challenges that small businesses are facing.”

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