State Representative Brad Halbrook (R-Shelbyville) is advising local businesses and governments about grant opportunities being provided by the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity through the Business Interruption Grants (BIG) Program.
“The BIG program is an excellent opportunity for small businesses to take advantage of federal funding and help mitigate the financial burden many of us are facing during the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Rep. Halbrook.
The BIG program, the largest of its kind in the nation, leverages federal funding through the CARES Act which was passed earlier this year by a bipartisan vote in Congress. Recipients of funding may use it to help businesses with working capital expenses, including payroll costs; rent; utilities; and other operational costs. Round 2 of BIG applications are currently active.
“As we come together during this trying time, I urge every small business to take advantage of this and the many other assistance programs offered by DCEO,” said Rep. Halbrook. “At the same time, we must be supportive of one another. Remember to shop local and do all you can to support the small businesses of your communities.”
You may find more information concerning the BIG program and many other funding opportunities for governments and small businesses by clicking this link or by going to www2.illinois.gov/dceo/SmallBizAssistance. Or you could reach out to Rep. Halbrook’s office at 217-774-1306.