NAPERVILLE – More than 20 small businesses across the 21st District were recently awarded over $850,000 in Back to Business grant funding, thanks to legislative measures supported by State Senator Laura Ellman (D-Naperville).
“Our small businesses have kept their doors open and served our community through the last two years of this pandemic against all odds,” Ellman said. “I’m pleased to know they are receiving this much-deserved assistance in recognition of their contributions and dedication.”
The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity selects grantees, and the grants are funded through the American Rescue Plan. The DCEO has dispersed $111 million in B2B grants to nearly 3,000 small businesses across Illinois who have been disproportionately impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Twenty-one businesses in the district Ellman represents received grants ranging from $5,000 to $250,000 in this round of funding to help them recoup losses from the past two years, and continue to keep their doors open to the community.
“It’s a privilege to be able to support our local businesses and bring their interests and needs to the table,” Ellman said. “They keep our community vibrant and our economy strong—our small businesses truly are some of our most valuable assets.”
Grants will continue to be awarded statewide on a rolling basis. More information about the B2B program, as well as a full list of grantees, is available on the DCEO’s website.