Mobile Menu - OpenMobile Menu - Closed

Small Business COVID-19 Resources

Small Business Resources during COVID-19 Outbreak

I know firsthand the challenges that entrepreneurs face when taking a risk to start a new business and how difficult it can be to run a small business even under ideal circumstances. That's why it is so important that we provide small business owners impacted by COVID-19 with emergency relief. 

Small businesses make up the backbone of our local economy - we need to do everything we can to support them mitigate the economic effects of this crisis. 

Please consider utilizing the following resources to help your small business. 

Federal Action 

On Friday, the House passed the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act. I was proud to vote for this historic relief package to support health care workers, small businesses, and families. The bill contains several important provisions, including:

  • $350 billion to provide forgivable loans to small businesses and non-profits to maintain their existing workforce and help pay for rent, mortgage, and utilities

  • $10 billion for Small Business Administration emergency grants of up to $10,000

  • And, $17 billion for SBA to cover six months of payments for existing SBA loans

Federal Resources

  • The United States Small Business Administration has approved Illinois' request for a disaster declaration. All Illinois small businesses affected by COVID-19 are now eligible to apply for low-interest disaster loans at www.disasterloan.sba.gov

  • The U.S. Chamber of Commerce has information on resources and ways individuals, or businesses can seek assistance. For more information, please visit: www.uschamber.com/coronavirus or contact 1-800-638-6582. To visit the U.S. Chamber of Commerce's small business resource guide can be found here.

  • The National Main Street program has resources for small businesses and offers community support for those impacted by COVID-19. For more information visit their website here or contact 312-610-5613.

  • The House Committee on Small Business has made congressional and federal resources available on their website here. 

State and Local Resources

Illinois has many resources available for small businesses:

  • The U.S. Small Business Administration's Illinois District Office can be found here and local assistance information here. 

  • The State of Illinois Coronavirus resource page can be found here.  

  • The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity Resources can be found here.

  • The IL Treasurer Small Business COVID-19 Relief program can be found here.