- Published: Friday, March 25, 2022 09:28 AM
CHAMPAIGN – Local businesses in Champaign and Vermilion Counties were awarded more than $8.2 million in funding from the Back to Business program thanks to advocacy and support from State Senator Scott Bennett (D-Champaign).
“We’re starting to see businesses move forward from the COVID-19 pandemic, however, there are still some that need a helping hand to fully recover,” Bennett said. “Grant programs like Back to Business have been vital to keeping the doors of thousands of small businesses across the state open.”
The B2B grants are awarded by the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity using funds allocated to them by the American Rescue Plan through last year’s state budget.
So far – thanks to strong support from Senator Bennett – DCEO has provided $200 million in B2B grants to small businesses throughout the state with an emphasis on disproportionately impacted areas. With nearly $50 million left to go, more businesses will have the opportunity to get a share of the relief funds.
“Every dollar is important for our small business community,” Bennett said. “I’m glad to see so many businesses in Champaign and Vermilion County take advantage of this opportunity.”
Grants will continue to be awarded on a rolling basis. Visit the DCEO website for more information on the B2B program or check the status of an existing application by logging into the portal.
