In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Community Development & Zoning Department is operating under State and County guidelines in order to ensure the safety of our staff, residents, and business owners.
Application materials and submissions should be emailed to staff as PDFs (Nicholas Walny:
nwalny@vofp.com; Ryan Adriatico:
radriatico@vofp.com) or mailed to Village Hall (address to: Community Development Department, 9500 Belmont Ave, Franklin Park, IL 60131) whenever possible. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact John Schneider at (847) 671-8300 or via email at
jschneider@vofp.com.
Governor Pritzker and DCEO Announces $250 Million Back to Business (B2B) Grant Program
August 16, 2021
As part of Illinois' COVID-19 economic recovery program, Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) launched the $250 million Back to Business (B2B) grant program to support the continued recovery of small businesses across Illinois. The first in a series of economic recovery programs by the administration, B2B will offer the hardest hit industries grants of $5K-$150K to help offset losses, bring back workers, and take continued steps to rebuild amid the fallout from the pandemic.
To reach the businesses most in need, DCEO will work alongside over 100 community navigators, 42 Small Business Development Centers (SBDCs) and other outreach partners who have relationships with their local business community. These partners stand ready to help small business prepare and apply for funding with 1-on-1, and multilingual assistance in every region of the state. The application period formally opens on August 18, 2021.
Click here to locate a local community navigator to help you prepare and apply.
Click here to learn more about B2B, requirements and how to apply.
DCEO to Host a Webinar Series on the US Small Business Administration's Federal Restaurant Revitalization Fund (RRF)
May 03, 2021
Please join the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity's Office of Regional Economic Development for a webinar to learn more about the US Small Business Administration's Federal Restaurant Revitalization Fund. This program is designed to provide assistance to restaurants, bars, and other similar places that serve food or drink. Darrah Perryman from the SBA will be joining us to present information on this program as it will launch soon.
Date and Time:
Wednesday, May 5, 2021 at 12:00pm CST
Click here to register
Restaurant Revitalization Fund Resources:
The US Small Business Administration's (SBA) Restaurant Revitalization Fund (RRF) Opens May 3rd
May 03, 2021
The new U.S. Small Business Administration’s (SBA) Restaurant Revitalization Fund (RRF) is set to open Monday, providing funding to eligible businesses to cover pandemic-related revenue losses. These funds can be used for payroll, mortgage/rent, supplies, and many other operating expenses.
In addition to application assistance from DCEO, our Illinois SBDCs and community navigator partners, the SBA is partnering with point-of-sale providers to leverage technology to better reach the smallest businesses that need the most help. SBA's partnerships with Clover ®, NCR Corporation, Square, and Toast will provide a customer-centric approach to the delivery of relief funds.
Steps You Can Do Now to Prepare:
Note: the SBA will prioritize eligible applications for the first 21 days specifically for: women, veterans, and socially and economically disadvantaged individuals.
IMA to Host Webinar on Federal Stimulus Package
December 29, 2020
Webinar Details:
Date: Wednesday, December 30, 2020
Time: 11:30 a.m. (CST)
Registration: IMA Federal Stimulus Package Webinar Registration
Congress recently enacted a new $900 billion economic stimulus package that contains a lifeline for many small businesses including manufacturers. The new economic package contains more money for the Paycheck Protection Program and makes significant changes in the Employee Retention Tax Credit.
The Illinois Manufacturers' Association (IMA) will host a webinar to take an in depth look at the latest stimulus package approved by Congress that will be signed into law by the President. In addition to extended unemployment insurance benefits and direct payments to individuals, the package includes many provisions that will impact your business.
The webinar will provide a debrief on the stimulus package followed by a Q & A session.
Any questions in advance of the program can be sent to ima@ima-net.org.
Applications Still Being Accepted for DCEO's Business Interruption Grant (BIG)
November 10, 2020
The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) is still seeking applications for small businesses that have been affected by the COVID-19 pandemic and recent civil unrest through the Business Interruption Grant (BIG) program. Funds from BIG aims to provide relief for all types of small businesses, with a focus on businesses located downstate or in disproportionately impacted areas (DIAs). The latest wave of funding includes the following provisions to ensure a wide distribution of funds geographically and across business type:
• Heavily Impacted Industries - $60 million for heavily distressed industries, such as movie theatres, performing arts venues, concert venues, indoor recreation, amusement parks, event spaces located at banquet halls and hotels, and more.
• Disproportionately Impacted Areas - $70 million set aside for DIAs, defined by zip codes identified by the General Assembly for communities that are most economically distressed and vulnerable to COVID-19. A map of DIAs can be accessed here.
• Downstate Communities - DCEO has committed to ensuring that at least half of all remaining funds, totaling more than $100 million, are reserved for businesses in downstate and rural communities of Illinois.
• Priority Businesses - Apart from the $60 million for heavily impacted industries, applications from the following types of businesses will be prioritized for review for remaining funds: businesses directly affected by regional mitigations implemented by the state or local governments, independently owned retail, tourism- and hospitality-related industries including accommodations, and more.
• Agriculture - $5 million of the remainder of funds will be set aside for livestock production disruptions.
• Grants and Loan Forgiveness for Illinois Small Business Emergency Loan recipients - As authorized by the General Assembly, DCEO will offer grants for businesses that have incurred eligible costs to offset loans received under the Illinois Small Business Emergency Loan program. This round of loan forgiveness and grants will go to businesses that have received loans or remain on the wait list and the program will sunset going forward as DCEO and its partners focus on making BIG awards
Click here for detailed information on the BIG program and application process.
Board of Trustees Passes Ordinance to Extend Outdoor Licensed Premise Permits for Outdoor Dining Areas
November 10, 2020
In response to assist with ongoing COVID-19 mitigation efforts, the Board of Trustees has approved the extension and issuance of Outdoor Licensed Premise Permits through April 30, 2021. This permit is required for all restaurants that intend to operate an outdoor dining area. All outdoor licensed premises must adhere to all local and state guidelines for approval. These guidelines are attached to the permit application in Executive Order No. 2020.04 and the Restore Illinois Outdoor Dining Guidelines.
Outdoor Licensed Premise Permit applications must be submitted to the Building Department for review. Applications and required supplemental materials can be submitted at Village Hall. Permit applications will not be accepted without a valid signature.
The application and guidelines for requirements can be accessed here:
Outdoor Licensed Premise Permit Application & Guidelines
Executive Order No. 2020.04
Restore Illinois Outdoor Dining Guidelines
If you have any questions, please contact the Building Department at (847) 671-8245.
November 6: Webinar on PPP Loan Forgiveness
November 02, 2020
The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) is hosting a webinar with the US Small Business Administration’s Stephen Konkle. In this Friday feature Stephen Konkle with the SBA will discuss how small businesses who have a PPP loan of $50,000, or less can be forgiven. This webinar is for loan officers and small businesses.
When: Friday November 6 2020, 10:00 am Central Time.
Where: Click Here at the Time of the Event to View the Webinar
Apply for Cook County's Latest COVID-19 Recovery Initiatives for Residents and Businesses
November 02, 2020
The Cook County Bureau of Economic Development announced new COVID-19 recovery initiatives for residents and businesses within Cook County.
Cook County's free Job Placement and Training Program has launched in collaboration with the Chicago Cook Workforce Partnership. The program helps workers impacted by the pandemic get back to work and find new careers. Details and assistance are found here.
In partnership with the Family Independence Initiative, Cook County has launched the Resident Cash Assistance Program where applicants can receive a one-time $600 payment in financial support. The application window closes November 6, 2020. Apply here.
Cook County' COVID-19 Recovery: Small Business Assistance program offers advising and grants for small businesses in suburban Cook County and unincorporated areas. Although the grant application is currently closed, businesses are welcome to apply for free advising, educational information, and find answers to frequently asked questions here.
Utility Bill Assistance
Community and Economic Development Association of Cook County, Inc. (CEDA) has programs to assist eligible residents with paying utility bills. If you are in need of support, you can access programs to assist with paying utility bills with Cook County's partners at CEDA. Information and applications for specific programs are found below:
If you have questions about your application, contact CEDA at (800) 571-2332.
Governor Pritzker Issues New COVID-19 Mitigation Requirements
October 27, 2020
Governor Pritzker has issued new COVID-19 mitigation requirements to combat the resurgence of COVID-19 and prevent uncontrollable spread of the virus. Resource pages in multiple languages regarding these requirements can be accessed by clicking here, and a summary is found below:
- Bars and restaurants must be closed by 11:00 p.m. and may not reopen earlier than 6:00 a.m. the following day.
- Bars and restaurants can serve patrons at tables with outdoor seating only, all tables should be placed six feet apart. No seating of multiple parties at one table. No indoor service or seating is allowed.
- No ordering, seating or congregating at the bar is allowed and it is recommended that bar stools be removed. No indoor service or seating is allowed.
- Reservations for all groups are required.
- No standing or congregating indoors or outdoors while waiting for a table or exiting the premises.
- Meetings, social events and gatherings are limited to the lesser of 25 people or 25% of overall room capacity. (This restriction modifies the previous limitation of the lesser of 50 people or 50% of overall room capacity.)
- No party buses are allowed.
- Gaming locations and casinos must be closed by 11:00 p.m. and are limited to 25% capacity, and must follow mitigations for bars and restaurants, if applicable.
SBA and Treasury Announce Simpler PPP Forgiveness for Loans of $50,000 or Less
October 13, 2020
The U.S. Small Business Administration provided the following information on the simpler loan forgiveness application for Paycheck Protection Program loans:
The U.S. Small Business Administration, in consultation with the Treasury Department, today released a simpler loan forgiveness application for Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans of $50,000 or less. This action streamlines the PPP forgiveness process to provide financial and administrative relief to America’s smallest businesses while also ensuring sound stewardship of taxpayer dollars.
“The PPP has provided 5.2 million loans worth $525 billion to American small businesses, providing critical economic relief and supporting more than 51 million jobs,” said Secretary Steven T. Mnuchin. “Today’s action streamlines the forgiveness process for PPP borrowers with loans of $50,000 or less and thousands of PPP lenders who worked around the clock to process loans quickly,” he continued. “We are committed to making the PPP forgiveness process as simple as possible while also protecting against fraud and misuse of funds. We continue to favor additional legislation to further simplify the forgiveness process.”
“Nothing will stop the Trump Administration from supporting great American businesses and our great American workers. The Paycheck Protection Program has been an overwhelming success and served as a historic lifeline to America’s hurting small businesses and tens of millions of workers. The new form introduced today demonstrates our relentless commitment to using every tool in our toolbelt to help small businesses and the banks that have participated in this program,” said Administrator Jovita Carranza. “We are continuing to ensure that small businesses are supported as they recover.”
SBA and Treasury have also eased the burden on PPP lenders, allowing lenders to process forgiveness applications more swiftly.
SBA began approving PPP forgiveness applications and remitting forgiveness payments to PPP lenders for PPP borrowers on October 2, 2020. SBA will continue to process all PPP forgiveness applications in an expeditious manner.
Click here to view the simpler loan forgiveness application.
Click here to view the instructions for completing the simpler loan forgiveness application.
Click here to view the Interim Final Rule on the simpler forgiveness process for loans of $50,000 or less.
Cook County Bureau of Economic Development offers New Small Business Loan
October 02, 2020
As part of Cook County’s ongoing COVID-19 Community Recovery Initiative efforts, the Bureau of Economic Development, in partnership with more than 35 county-wide organizations, is providing critical support for small businesses impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Program offerings include:
- $10,000 Grants for small businesses (less than 20 employees) in suburban Cook County
- Cook County / Chicago Business Advising Program
- Business Resiliency Webinars
- Applications are open now and will close at 5 PM on October 6 2020
- Find eligibility and applications here: cookcountysmallbusinessassistance.com
Click here for more information on the Cook County small business loan.
Applications Now Being Accepted for DCEO's Business Interruption Grant (BIG)
September 17, 2020
Governor Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity announced that applications for small businesses that have been affected by the COVID-19 pandemic and recent civil unrest through the Business Interruption Grant (BIG) program. The second wave of funds from BIG aims to provide relief for all types of small businesses, with a focus on businesses located downstate or in disproportionately impacted areas (DIAs). The latest wave of funding includes the following provisions to ensure a wide distribution of funds geographically and across business type:
• Heavily Impacted Industries - $60 million for heavily distressed industries, such as movie theatres, performing arts venues, concert venues, indoor recreation, amusement parks, event spaces located at banquet halls and hotels, and more.
• Disproportionately Impacted Areas - $70 million set aside for DIAs, defined by zip codes identified by the General Assembly for communities that are most economically distressed and vulnerable to COVID-19. A map of DIAs can be accessed here.
• Downstate Communities - DCEO has committed to ensuring that at least half of all remaining funds, totaling more than $100 million, are reserved for businesses in downstate and rural communities of Illinois.
• Priority Businesses - Apart from the $60 million for heavily impacted industries, applications from the following types of businesses will be prioritized for review for remaining funds: businesses directly affected by regional mitigations implemented by the state or local governments, independently owned retail, tourism- and hospitality-related industries including accommodations, and more.
• Agriculture - $5 million of the remainder of funds will be set aside for livestock production disruptions.
• Grants and Loan Forgiveness for Illinois Small Business Emergency Loan recipients - As authorized by the General Assembly, DCEO will offer grants for businesses that have incurred eligible costs to offset loans received under the Illinois Small Business Emergency Loan program. This round of loan forgiveness and grants will go to businesses that have received loans or remain on the wait list and the program will sunset going forward as DCEO and its partners focus on making BIG awards
Click here for detailed information on the BIG program and application process.
Restore Illinois Guide to Reopening: Phase 4
June 26, 2020
The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) has provided new guidelines and requirements for Phase 4 of the Restore Illinois reopening plan which has gone into effect today, June 26.
An overview on Phase 4 plan can be accessed below:
Restore Illinois
The Phase 4 Website contains vital information and resources specific to all industries that are covered in Phase 4. Click the following link to view the Phase 4 page:
Phase 4 Website and Resources
Click the links below for specific guidelines and toolkits for certain industries:
If you have read the industry safety guidelines above and have other specific questions or comments about how Phase 4 affects your business or employees, please feel free to get in touch with DCEO. For direct support, contact our Business Hotline Monday through Friday at 1-800-252-2923, or email at: ceo.support@illinois.gov.
Required: Outdoor Licensed Premise Permit for Outdoor Dining Areas
May 28, 2020
In accordance with the Governor’s latest Executive Order regarding outdoor dining for restaurants in Illinois, the Village has produced an application for an Outdoor Licensed Premise Permit. This permit is required for all restaurants that intend to operate an outdoor dining area. All outdoor licensed premises must adhere to all local and state guidelines for approval. These guidelines are attached to the permit application in Executive Order No. 2020.04 and the Restore Illinois Outdoor Dining Guidelines.
Outdoor Licensed Premise Permit applications must be submitted to the Building Department for review. Applications and required supplemental materials can be submitted at Village Hall via the Water Bill Drop Box in the parking lot. Permit applications will not be accepted without a valid signature.
The application and guidelines for requirements can be accessed here:
Outdoor Licensed Premise Permit Application & Guidelines
Executive Order No. 2020.04
Restore Illinois Outdoor Dining Guidelines
If you have any questions, please contact the Building Department at (847) 671-8245.
Restore Illinois Guide to Reopening
May 26, 2020 **Updated May 29, 2020 with links to guidelines and toolkits for specific industries**
The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) has provided a summary on the five phase guide to safely reopening businesses guided by health metrics and with marked by distinct business, education, and recreation activities characterizing each phase. The Restore Illinois plan recognizes that the economy will start growing again when consumers feel that it is safe to return to work, shop and dine out, and engage in social and recreational activities. Under the Restore Illinois framework, certain businesses and activities are allowed to resume in Phase 3 with Illinois Department of Public Health-approved safety guidance in place. There are also specific guidelines and toolkits outlined for the following industries:
- Restaurants and Bars (outdoor dining and drinking) - Full-service restaurants, limited-service restaurants, snacks bars, taverns, and other food and beverage businesses. EFFECTIVE IMMEDIATELY: The Village has produced an application for an Outdoor Licensed Premise Permit. This permit is required for all restaurants that intend to operate an outdoor dining area. Click here to access the Outdoor Licensed Premise Permit Application.
- Manufacturing - Manufacturing facilities such as plants, factories and mills
- Health and Fitness Centers - Gyms, fitness centers, yoga, dance, cycling, pilates, barre studios, and other customer-facing fitness centers
- Offices - Non-customer-facing offices such as: legal; accounting services; architectural/engineering design; and other professional services
- Personal Care Services - Hair salons, barber shops, nail salons, spas, waxing centers, tattoo parlors
- Retail - Retailers and merchandisers such as: grocery stores; hardware stores; clothing stores; pharmacies; department stores; shopping malls
- Outdoor Recreation - Customer facing services such as driving ranges, outdoor shooting ranges, paintball courses, outdoor adventure parks
- Service Counters - Stores providing assorted services for dropped off goods, such as: dry cleaners; electronics repair shops; shoe repair shops; car washes
- Day Camps - Recreational youth programs such as sports camps, recreational camps, educational camps
- Youth Sports - Youth sports games or matches, group sports lessons, team or group sports practices (no competitive sports permitted in Phase 3)
The entire Phase 3 plan can be accessed below:
Restore Illinois
If you have read the industry safety guidelines above and have other specific questions or comments about how Phase 3 affects your business or employees, please feel free to get in touch with DCEO. For direct support, contact our Business Hotline Monday through Friday at 1-800-252-2923, or email at: ceo.support@illinois.gov.
Frequently Asked Questions: Face Covering Use for Businesses
May 12, 2020
The Cook County Department of Human Resources has provided a summary regarding the usage of face coverings for businesses. The summary addresses when face coverings are required, exceptions, reasonable accommodations, and other topics. This vital information can be accessed below:
FAQ for Businesses Concerning Use of Face-Coverings During COVID-19
IMA Releases Safety and Reopening Guide for Manufacturers
May 15, 2020
While the Governor’s Executive Order is still in effect, the Illinois Manufacturers’ Association (IMA) has provided a comprehensive guide that outlines best practices for manufacturers as they strategize for the safe reopening of businesses and the economy at large. This guide does not represent legal, regulatory, or medical advice and was completed in partnership with FTI Consulting. The guide builds upon federal and state resources and is designed to keep employees, customers, partners, and communities as safe as possible. The IMA hopes that this guide will allow manufacturers in Illinois to confidently operate their businesses when stay-at-home orders are eased or lifted. Topics covered include personal protection, social distancing, health screenings, disinfection and cleaning policies, and communication advice for interacting with customers, suppliers, and communities.
In conjunction with this written guide, the IMA is hosting a webinar at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, May 20. The IMA and FTI Consulting will present highlights from the guide and provide an opportunity for you to ask questions of IMA staff and FTI’s experts. You can register for that webinar
here, and submit your questions ahead of time
via email.
Upcoming Cook County Webinars, Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) Application Assistance
May 11, 2020
The Cook County Bureau of Economic Development is hosting the following webinars regarding business perspectives and best practices for operation during the COVID-19 crisis. Information and links to join the webinars are below:
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Wednesday, May 13, at 10:00 am – The Bureau of Economic Development and Daley College are co-hosting a webinar for Manufacturers to share how to use apprenticeships to attract and retain talent. Featured speakers include Ed Miniat and the Principal Manufacturing group. Register today!
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Thursday, May 14, at 1:00 pm - National COVID-19 Response Peer Sharing is hosting an open virtual forum for Next-Gen practitioners and business leaders in all industries to connect and exchange experiences in how your partnerships are responding to the COVID-19 crisis. Please come prepared to share best practices and ask questions. Join via Zoom link Dial-in: (646) 876-9923 Meeting ID: 917 5101 9747.
To receive assistance for the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) application, please fill out the following form:
Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) Application Assistance
COVID-19 Executive Order No. 30
May 1, 2020 **Updated May 4, 2020 with summary from DCEO
CCLB Town Hall Recap and COVID-19 Community Development Resource Guide
April 30, 2020
The Cook County Land Bank Authority (CCLB) held a virtual Town Hall meeting that covered resources for neighborhood developers during the COVID-19 crisis. Along with representatives from the CCLB, the webinar included a panel featuring Cook County Commissioner Bridget Gainer, Chicago City Treasurer Melissa Conyears-Ervin, Cook County Bureau of Economic Development Deputy Director Mohammed Elahi, Chicago Community Loan Fund President Calvin Holmes, and LISC Small Business Lender Marcus Yancey.
A full recording of the webinar along with other resources are hosted here.
The Chicago Community Loan Fund also shared their Community Development Resource Guide which can be accessed here.
Paycheck Protection Program Updates and Webinar from IMA
April 27, 2020
The Illinois Manufacturers' Association (IMA) provided the following update on the Paycheck Protection Program:
The U.S. Small Business Administration will resume accepting Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loan applications on April 27 at 9:30 a.m. CST. This comes after the President signed Phase 3.5 that adds $484 billion in new funds including $310 billion for the Paycheck Protection Act.
Employer Resources & Programs
On Thursday, April 30, from 10:00 a.m. -12:00 p.m., the IMA will host a webinar on maximizing the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans funds. In this webinar we'll discuss how your PPP loan funds should be spent and how they should be tracked so your loan can become eligible for forgiveness, as well as a look at any new legislation. We'll also have a Q&A session at the end of our webinar.
To register for the webinar, click here.
Please visit the IMA's dedicated COVID-19 page for updates and resources.
Upcoming DCEO Webinars
April 27, 2020
Please join the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity as they host the following webinars on COVID-19 resources and relief:
COVID-19 Resources: Online with OMEE
The Business Development Managers from OMEE will provide you with the latest updates regarding federal and state programs and answer any questions regarding available resources. This is an open online conversation with OMEE constituents (racial/ethnic minorities, women, persons with disabilities, and veteran - owned businesses).
To register for one or more of the following dates and times, please click here.
Dates and Times:
- Wednesday, April 29, 2020 at 2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
- Wednesday, May 6, 2020 at 2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
- Wednesday, May 20, 2020 at 2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
COVID-19 Resources for African American Small Business Owners
DCEO’s African American Business Development Manager Matt Simpson will be hosting a series of webinars focusing on African American small businesses. Matt will be joined by a representative from the Small Business Administration to discuss the federal programs that are available. Please note, the below webinars are open to all Illinois small business owners. However, DCEO recognizes that there are unique challenges that African American business owners face and will speak to those concerns in this webinar series.
If you have questions, please contact Matt at matthew.simpson@illinois.gov.
Dates and Times:
- Friday, May 1, 2020 at 2:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. – Southern & Southwest Region: (East St Louis, Centerville, Carbondale, Cairo)
Please register at https://bit.ly/2yhb8TS
- Friday, May 8, 2020 at 2:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. - North Central, Northern Stateline, Northwest, West Central, and East Central Regions (Peoria, Decatur, Champaign, Quad Cities, Galesburg)
Please register at https://bit.ly/3b9Kknj
- Friday, May 15, 2020 at 2:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. – Northeast Region (Chicago South Suburbs, Dolton, Riverdale, South Holland, Thornton, Lansing)
Please register at https://bit.ly/2RDzyhl
COVID-19 Resources for Latinx Small Business Owners
DCEO’s Latino Business Development Manager Diana Alfaro will be hosting a series of webinars focusing on Latinx small businesses in collaboration with DCEO’s Team RED - Regional Economic Development member, Manuel Lopez, in English or Spanish. Please note, the below webinars are open to all Illinois small business owners. However, DCEO recognizes that there are unique challenges that Latinx business owners face and will speak to those concerns in this webinar series.
If you have questions, please contact Diana at diana.alfaro@illinois.gov. The web link will be sent the day before. Please note, if you can’t make these webinars, there are additional ones focusing on Latinx small businesses coming.
Dates and Times:
- Tuesday, April 28, 2020 (Spanish) at 1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m – Central Illinois Region with co-host: Greater Peoria Hispanic Chamber of Commerce
Please register HERE
- Thursday, April 30, 2020 (English) at 2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. – Statewide with co-host: Illinois Hispanic Chamber of Commerce
Please register HERE
COVID-19 Resources for Latinx Small Business Owners (SPANISH)
El Departamento de Comercio y Oportunidad Económica (DCEO por sus siglas en inglés) tendrá un seminario web (webinar) para explicar los recursos disponibles para aquellos negocios pequeños impactados por el coronavirus. Antes del evento, usted recibirá un correo electrónico con los detalles para participar.
- Martes, 28 de April de 2020 (Español) – Coanfitrión: Cámara de comercio hispana de Peoria (Illinois central enfocado), 1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. (CDT)
Para registrarse hacer clic aquí
COVID-19 Resources for Women Small Business Owners
DCEO’s Women’s Business Development Manager Ibie Hart will be hosting an “All in for Women” series of webinars focusing on women-owned small businesses. Ibie will be providing the latest update on federal programs, information on private grants for women-owned businesses, and additional government resources. There will also be an opportunity for participants to share the barriers women-owned businesses are facing. Please note, the below webinars are open to all Illinois small business owners. However, DCEO recognizes that there are unique challenges that women-owned business owners face and will speak to those concerns in this webinar series.
If you have questions, please contact Ibie at Ibie.Hart@Illinois.gov. The web link will be sent the day before.
Dates and Times:
- Monday, May 4, 2020 at 3:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m. for African American business owners
- Tuesday, May 5, 2020 at 3:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m. for Asian American business owners
- Wednesday, May 6, 2020 at 3:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m. for Latina American business owners
- Thursday, May 7, 2020 at 3:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m. for Native American business owners
- Friday, May 8, 2020 at 3:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m. for Veteran and women with disabilities businesses
- Saturday, May 9, 2020 at 11:00 p.m. – 12:00 p.m. for women businesses of all identities
For all webinars please register: https://bit.ly/3eNNC1S
For minority-owned business related questions please email OMEE at CEO.OMEE@illinois.gov.
For help reducing the impact of COVID-19 on our communities, please visit: https://bit.ly/2z1u35x
Update on Stay-at-Home Order (via IMA)
April 24, 2020
The Illinois Manufacturers' Association (IMA) has provided a summary on Governor Pritzker's draft Executive Order regarding shelter-in-place practices, essential businesses, and other items in response to the COVID-19 crisis. Please note that the final Executive Order may contain changes. See the summary below:
The IMA received a draft copy of the Governor’s Executive Order from multiple sources this morning. As the IMA reported yesterday following the Governor’s daily press conference, he plans to sign a new Executive Order next week that will extend they “stay-at-home” order for an additional 30 days through the end of May while also making additional changes, some of which impact manufacturing. Please consider that this is a draft and will not be final until signed by the Governor so it could change.
Based on the draft language, here is what manufacturers can expect to see become effective on May 1.
The new order continues to include the same exemption for “essential manufacturing” that is defined as:
Manufacturing companies, distributors, and supply chain companies producing and supplying essential products and services in and for industries such as pharmaceutical, technology, biotechnology, healthcare, chemicals and sanitization, waste pickup and disposal, agriculture, food and beverage, transportation, energy, steel and steel products, petroleum and fuel, mining, construction, national defense, communications, as well as products used by other Essential Businesses and Operations.
However, the Executive Order will include brand new safety requirements specifically for manufacturers who continue to operate. They must follow social distancing requirements and take appropriate precautions which may include:
· Providing face coverings to all employees who are not able to maintain a minimum six feet of social distancing at all times
· Staggering shifts
· Reducing line speeds
· Operating only essential lines while shutting down non-essential lines
· Ensuring that all spaces where employees may gather, including locker rooms and lunchrooms, allow for social distancing; and
· Downsizing operations to the extent necessary to allow for social distancing and to provide a safe workspace in response to the COVID-19 emergency
The IMA recommends following the Executive Order to the fullest extent possible. The draft order does allow some flexibility in that it says “may include” as opposed to “shall include” which was done because every manufacturing facility operates differently and every single recommendation may not be possible.
At the IMA’s request, with your help, the Governor’s office removed stricter language yesterday that would have shuttered additional manufacturing facilities and created a new “inventory” requirement that would have been devastating to supply chains.
The Executive Order will require businesses to follow guidance provided or published by the Office of the Governor, Department of Commerce & Economic Opportunity, state and local law enforcement, Department of Public Health, local public health departments, and the Workplace Rights Bureau in the Attorney General’s Office with respect to social distancing requirement. Businesses are prohibited from retaliating against at employee for disclosing information where the employee has reasonable cause to believe that the information violates this Order.
In addition, here are other significant changes that will begin on May 1:
· Illinoisans over the age of 2 years must wear masks when out in public when they cannot maintain a six-foot distance. Face coverings will be required in all indoor spaces such as stores.
· Greenhouses, garden centers, and nurseries may reopen as essential businesses. Retail stores must provide face coverings to all employees who are not able to maintain a 6-foot distancing, cap occupancy to 50 percent of store capacity, set up store aisles to be one way and mark with conspicuous signage, communicate with customers about social distancing, and discontinue use of reusable bags.
· Retail stores that are non-essential may reopen to fulfill telephone and online orders through curbside pickup or delivery.
· Golf courses and state parks will be allowed to reopen. Fishing and boating are allowed with no more than two people per boat.
· The Department of Public Health will issue guidance to hospitals and surgical centers to allow for certain elective surgeries.
Again, this is a draft of the Executive Order and does represent the final order – it could be changed.
Paycheck Protection Program Updates Webinar: (4/24)
April 23, 2020
Please join Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle and the Illinois Business Immigration Coalition this Friday, April 24th at 10:00am CST for a webinar to receive application assistance and updates on the renewal of the Paycheck Protection Program. Register and Learn more at the following links:
DCEO to Host COVID-19 Resources Webinar in Spanish (4/16)
April 14, 2020
On Thursday, April 16 at 1:00 p.m., the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) will be hosting a webinar in Spanish about the resources available to small business owners impacted by COVID-19. To register, please click
here. DCEO will email registrants a link to access the webinar prior to the event.
Cook County Community Recovery Initiative
April 13, 2020
The Cook County Bureau of Economic Development has launched a comprehensive initiative to provide economic relief to small businesses, non-profits, community service organizations, and independent contractors (1099 workers) in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. They also have hosted a webinar on the Paycheck Protection Program. Learn more at the following links:
Assistance for Small Businesses
April 10, 2020
Congressman Mike Quigley has provided a summary of available programs for businesses that are seeking relief during the COVID-19 crisis.
IMA Employer Programs & Paycheck Program
April 3, 2020
The following is an announcement regarding new programs from the Illinois Manufacturers' Association:
Illinois employers have been extremely challenged over the last two weeks with the outbreak of the novel coronavirus pandemic. The Illinois Manufacturers’ Association remains the leading information resource for our state’s manufacturers and our staff is working diligently to provide timely and accurate information in a rapidly evolving environment.
During this difficult time, the IMA is extending an offer to all Illinois manufacturers to receive the Morning Digest and IMA Member Alerts free of charge through June 30, 2020. If you know a manufacturer that is not currently a member of the IMA, please ask them to sign up here to be added to our communication updates so that we can advocate, inform, and support them during this pandemic. We want to help the entire Illinois manufacturing community.
Governor JB Pritzker has issued twenty executive orders over a three-week period of time impacting Illinois residents and businesses including the “stay-at-home” order that took effect on Saturday, March 21 and has now been extended through Thursday, April 30. The Illinois Manufacturers’ Association secured the “essential manufacturing” designation allowing the majority of manufacturers along with their supply chain and distributors to continue operating.
At the request of Governor Pritzker, I am co-chairing the Essential Equipment Task Force with our partner John Conrad at the Illinois Biotechnology Innovation Organization to help Illinois procure important equipment and supplies needed for this battle. I’m heartened by the overwhelming response from IMA members and companies across Illinois who are stepping forward to help meet this challenge.
The IMA and our team are engaging every single day with the Governor’s Administration, Chicago City Hall, and our federal officials and agencies to advocate for the manufacturing sector and make sure that your voice is heard. With passage of three federal economic stimulus packages, and subsequent action at the state level (and in the City of Chicago), there are a number of programs that are available to manufacturers and other businesses.
Below is a comprehensive list of programs and guidance that are currently available for employers – many of which have been or will start taking applications on Friday, April 3 including the Paycheck Protection Program. The PPP is a forgivable loan program for small employers designed to keep workers on the payroll. Businesses can apply through an existing SBA 7a lender or through any federally insured bank, credit union, or other participating institution. This is a first-come, first-serve program for businesses with less than 50 employees with funds available for payroll, medical, mortgage, rent, utility, and other costs.
The IMA encourages your company to review and apply for any and all of the programs for which your company qualifies. Please click here for a guide with more information that was prepared with assistance from our partners at the Illinois Retail Merchants Association.
Federal and State Programs
Aid to All Businesses
Illinois State Agency Resources
Illinois General Resources & Information: visit coronavirus.illinois.gov
A Guide to Essential Businesses
April 3, 2020
The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) has provided a guide that provides information on what is considered an “Essential Business” during the shelter-in-place Executive Order, and what operations this includes. DCEO is the governing body that defines this, and the Village operates under these guidelines. Any inquiries regarding Essential Businesses should be directed to DCEO at 1-800-252-2923 or via email at
CEO.support@illinois.gov. The guide can be accessed below:
Governor Pritzker Announces the "All In Illinois" Campaign (Via DCEO)
April 3, 2020
The following is an announcement regarding Governor Pritzker's All In Illinois Campaign from the Illinois Department of Commerce an Economic Opportunity (DCEO).
At the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity, we are doing everything we can to protect the people and businesses of Illinois.
Today the Governor launched the All In Illinois campaign, to remind residents of our state to stay home, stay safe and stay healthy. On our All In Illinois website, you will find a tool kit of key messaging, social profile templates and downloadable posters for you and your family, neighbors, employees, members and constituents. Please share this toolkit with your email lists and share through social channels so that we get this message to as many people as possible. We will be providing physical signs across the state and we will share the details once system is in place.
In addition, we’ve asked Illinois celebrities and leaders to help us keep people safe during this time by making short selfie videos that remind Illinoisans how to slow the spread of COVID-19. We want you to feel appreciated for the sacrifices you’re making to keep everyone safe. And we want people to take the pledge to go “All In, Illinois.” As a leader in your community, we’d love for you to help us carry this critical message to even more people.
Below you will also find a list of federal and state programs we encourage businesses to take advantage of. Please visit our website here for more information.
Thanks for everything you’re doing to help during this unprecedented crisis. I wish your community safety and health.
Sincerely,
Director Erin Guthrie
COVID-19 Federal Programs (Via DCEO)
March 31, 2020
The following is a summary from Erin Guthrie, Director of the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) regarding available Federal programs for COVID-19 relief.
Dear Valued Partner,
During this challenging time, we want to make sure you have the most up-to-date information regarding all of our resources available to you. Due to the recently passed federal stimulus package, your business may be eligible for aid from the federal government. Learn more about the current available options below.
· Paycheck Protection Program – The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) will provide $349 billion in loans through the Paycheck Protection Program to small businesses and non-profits. Portions of these loans will be forgiven to the extent that recipients maintain their existing workforce or rehire. Loans can be up to $10 million and interest rates are maxed at 4% for portions of the loan that do not qualify for loan forgiveness. Learn more here.
· Economic Injury Disaster Loan – The program provides small businesses with working capital loans of up to $2 million that can provide vital economic support to small businesses to help overcome the temporary loss of revenue they are experiencing. Borrowers can request an emergency advance of $10,000 within 3 days of submitting the application and do not have to repay the advance if they are denied a loan. Learn more here.
· Subsidy for Current Loan Payments – The SBA will cover up to 6 months of principal and interest payments that are owed on most existing SBA loans. Learn more here.
· Training and Advising for Existing Businesses – Additional funds are provided to SBDCs, Women’s Business Centers, and Minority Business Centers for education, training and advising to small businesses. Small Businesses can take advantage of this now.
· Aid to Midsize Businesses and Nonprofits – $454 billion will be available from the U.S. Treasury to provide financial assistance through loan programs established by the Federal Reserve. As part of that, a special fund is dedicated to midsize businesses and nonprofits with 500-10,000 employees to provide financing to banks and other lenders to make direct loans to these entities. The interest rate on those loans would be capped at 2%, with no payments due for the first six months. These loans cannot be forgiven.
· Significant restrictions will be placed on the midsize business and nonprofit assistance, such as prohibiting paying out dividends while the loan is outstanding. More guidance will be forthcoming from the U.S. Treasury on additional criteria and funding access.
As previously announced, there are additional small business grants and loans available including the Hospitality Emergency Grant (applications due April 1), Illinois Small Business Emergency Loan Fund and Downstate Small Business Stabilization Program. Learn more here.
We will continue to update you on any additional information we receive from the federal government, which is forthcoming on a daily basis. If your company or industry is adding jobs during this time, please let us know so we can partner with you to find workers.
CARES Act Update (Via IMA)
March 27, 2020
The following is a message from Mark Denzler of the Illinois Manufacturers' Association (IMA) regarding the CARES Act:
Moments ago, President Trump signed the Coronavirus Response and Affordable Care Act (CARES) that passed the U.S. Senate and Congress. This record $2 trillion package is designed to support workers and assist impacted businesses.
Our partners at the National Association of Manufacturers were intimately involved in crafting the package to ensure that manufacturing voices were heard and provided this summary. The IMA is working on a more detailed analysis and will be updating our Q & A page on our website.
Key provisions of the CARE Act include:
- $500 billion in loans and loan guarantees for eligible businesses
- $350 billion for small business loans administered by the Small Business Administration
- Creates a retroactive Net Operating Loss Carryback
- Increases allowable interest deductions
- Establishes a payroll tax deferral for 2020
- Creates a temporary refundable payroll tax credit for employee retention
- Accelerates alternative minimum tax credits
- Caps maximum payments that employers will be required to pay for Families First Emergency paid leave requirements
- Funds new unemployment insurance programs for unemployed or underemployed workers
- Provides individual rebate checks to individuals subject to income limits
More information will follow soon.
Updated Resources for EDCs, Businesses, and Communities (Via IEDA)
March 26, 2020
The Illinois Economic Development Association (IEDA) has compiled the following resources regarding COVID-19 relief:
VITAL RESOURCES FOR ORGANIZATIONS & BUSINESSES (UPDATED)
CARE Act Agreement, FMLA Update & Economic Survey Results (Via IMA)
March 26, 2020
The following is a message from Mark Denzler of the Illinois Manufacturers’ Association (IMA):
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The President and Members of Congress reached an agreement on a third stimulus measure entitled the Coronavirus Response and Affordable Care Act (CARE) this week. The measure passed the Senate last night and is expected to pass the House of Representatives soon. This record $2 trillion package is designed to support workers and assist impacted businesses.
Our partners at the National Association of Manufacturers were intimately involved in crafting the package to ensure that manufacturing voices were heard and provided this summary. The IMA is working on a more detailed analysis that we will be providing members in the near future.
Key provisions of the CARE Act include:
- $500 billion in loans and loan guarantees for eligible businesses
- $350 billion for small business loans administered by the Small Business Administration
- Creates a retroactive Net Operating Loss Carryback
- Increases allowable interest deductions
- Establishes a payroll tax deferral for 2020
- Creates a temporary refundable payroll tax credit for employee retention
- Accelerates alternative minimum tax credits
- Caps maximum payments that employers will be required to pay for Families First Emergency paid leave requirements
- Funds new unemployment insurance programs for unemployed or underemployed workers
- Provides individual rebate checks to individuals subject to income limits
The Illinois Manufacturers’ Association is hosting a conference call on Friday with attorneys from Barnes & Thornburg to discuss the Families First provisions of emergency paid leave and the extended FMLA program. These new programs for employers with less than 500 employees are set to take effect on April 1, 2020. There are numerous questions surrounding these new programs and the U.S. Department of Labor has provided guidance for employers, employees, and a Q & A sheet. If you have questions for the speakers, please submit them to ima@ima-net.org.
Finally, in case you missed it, the IMA released our second weekly economic survey of manufacturers designed to measure the impact of the novel coronavirus. Click here for survey results and an executive summary.
Be safe.
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Mark Denzler
President & CEO
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