Lake County Gazette

The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) has launched the Back to Business: New Business Grant Program to extend financial assistance to businesses that commenced operations between 2020 and 2021 and experienced significant challenges resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic. This program aims to provide relief and support to these struggling businesses during these unprecedented times.

Through the Back to Business: New Business Grant Program, eligible businesses can receive financial relief of up to $30,000. The grant can be used to cover various expenses, such as payroll costs, rent or mortgage payments, utilities, and other operational expenses. This financial lifeline is expected to offer some respite to businesses that have been grappling with the economic fallout caused by the pandemic.

The DCEO is encouraging all businesses that meet the eligibility criteria to apply for this grant opportunity. The application window will remain open until January 11, 2024, giving businesses ample time to submit their applications. Interested businesses can find detailed information about the grant program on the DCEO website.

"We understand the immense challenges new businesses have faced during these difficult times," said the spokesperson for the DCEO. "The Back to Business: New Business Grant Program is designed to provide much-needed financial relief to these businesses, enabling them to recover and thrive in the post-pandemic economy."

The grant program is part of the ongoing efforts by the DCEO to support businesses and stimulate economic growth in Illinois. By providing financial assistance to new businesses that have been hit hard by the pandemic, the DCEO aims to ensure that these enterprises can continue operating and contribute to the state's economic recovery.

The Back to Business: New Business Grant Program has garnered significant attention from entrepreneurs and business owners who are eager to receive financial support to overcome the challenges they have faced. Many businesses that started during the pandemic have been struggling to stay afloat due to reduced customer demand and operational restrictions.

One business owner expressed their gratitude for the grant program, stating, "This grant opportunity is a lifeline for my business. The financial relief will allow us to continue paying our employees and cover essential expenses. We are grateful to the DCEO for their support."

As the deadline for applications approaches, the DCEO urges eligible businesses to take advantage of this opportunity and submit their applications promptly. The department is committed to reviewing and processing applications efficiently to ensure that businesses receive the financial assistance they desperately need.

The Back to Business: New Business Grant Program is a testament to the DCEO's dedication to supporting businesses during these challenging times. By providing much-needed financial relief, the program aims to help new businesses navigate the economic uncertainties resulting from the pandemic and emerge stronger in the post-COVID era.

Interested businesses are encouraged to visit the DCEO website for more information and to begin the application process. The DCEO remains committed to fostering resilience and growth within Illinois' business community, and the Back to Business: New Business Grant Program is a step towards achieving that goal.

To find out more, go to this link: https://repweber.com/2023/12/19/dceo-back-to-business-grant-opportunity/