Applications are currently openon the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity’s website for the Back to Business (B2B) program. Through this program, the state of Illinois is offering $175 million in recovery grants for businesses in three select categories that have been hardest hit by the pandemic. Restaurants, hotels, and creative arts organizations are all able to submit applications from now until May 10.

In total, $75 million will be available for the hotel grants, while $50 million will be available for restaurants and creative arts organizations respectively. Grants are wide ranging, from $5,000 to $50,000 for restaurants, up to $1,500 per room for hotels, and $5,000 to $250,000 for creative arts organizations. More information about the program and the exact requirements to apply for the grants can be found on the DCEO’s website. 

To assist business owners with the application process and to answer questions regarding qualifications, The Senate Republican Caucus is partnering with DCEO to host a Back to Business online webinar on Wednesday, May 3 from 10:30 – 11:30 a.m. Representatives from DCEO will be on hand to provide information and to guide business owners through the application process.

To participate in the webinar, registration is required. Please email your name, as well as your business name, address, and phone number to RSVP@sgop.ilga.gov. Upon RSVP, participants will receive a link to the online webinar.