PARK FOREST – Sixty-two additional small businesses in the 40th Senate District were awarded $1.9 million in pandemic-related aid thanks to support from State Senator Patrick Joyce (D-Essex). 

“Illinois is fighting to keep small businesses operating,” Joyce said. “I’m pleased to see our local restaurants, salons, fitness centers and other organizations in our community get a financial boost.”

The B2B program 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 Joyce – DCEO has provided $111 million in B2B grants to nearly 3,000 small businesses throughout the state with an emphasis on disproportionately impacted areas.

The latest B2B announcement awarded grants ranging from $5,000 to $25,000 to help them cover the costs of safely staying open in these unpredictable times. Businesses ranged from coffee shops to art studios and more.

“Our small businesses are the backbone of our community and our community is seeing firsthand how the Back to Business grant program can help keep their doors open,” Joyce said. 

Grants will continue to be awarded on a rolling basis. Visit the DCEO website for more information on the B2B program and view a full list of grantees here.