Illinois’s $175 Million Back to Business Grant is Back! ⚡️

Dear neighbor,

Last week, Illinois’s $175 million Back to Business (B2B) grant program reopened for restaurants, hotels, and creative arts organizations. The B2B grant program is designed to provide recovery grants for Illinois businesses in industries we know were hit hardest by pandemic disruptions.

Since the start of the pandemic, the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) has provided more than $535 million in grants to more than 15,000 businesses through business support programs like B2B.

If you know someone who owns a business, like a coffee shop, bar, restaurant, theater, or cultural organization — or if you own one yourself — I encourage you to share this information so that businesses in-need can apply before the grant closes on May 10, 2023.

 Program eligibility requirements are available at dceo.illinois.gov, and there are over 100 local “community navigators” available (in over ten languages!) to answer questions and help you navigate this application process. To identify a navigator go to: www.bit.ly/NavIL

With $175 million in grant dollars on the table to help businesses cover pandemic losses, my office is committed to ensuring that any business in the 39th District that wants to apply, has the resources and information required. That’s why my office will be going door-to-door visiting businesses throughout the district this week to spread the word. If you see us, make sure to say “hi” and, as always, my office is here to connect you with support services via email or phone at will@repguzzardi.com and (773) 853-2570.

 

Thank you for reading and helping spread the word. 

Be well and stay safe —


COFFEE WITH WILL

Meet me at my next community Coffee and Conversation hosted at Chiya Chai Cafe on Saturday, April 22nd.  

During this month's coffee, I'll share policy updates from Springfield and a, be eager to connect and hear your feedback on policies that are important to you and your family.

Free coffee or chai will be provided!  

Click here to RSVP: www.bit.ly/CoffeeWithWill


LOVE PURSE DRIVE

My office is partnering up with "Love Purse" for a very special donation drive. Please consider donating a new purse and toiletries that will go to women in need in our community! 

Donation products:

  • A new purse

  • Toiletries to go in the purse such as feminine products, deodorant, soap, body lotion, hand sanitizer, tooth brush, tooth paste, lip balm, nail file, shower slippers, socks, face mask, comb, brush, full size shampoo, &  conditioner, face cloth, compact mirror, chocolates, mints, floss, note pad, pen, a few coins for good fortune, etc.

  • And most importantly a note of inspiration

Donation drop-off locations:

  • 3140 W. Montrose Ave.

  • 3458 N. Cicero Ave.

  • 4007 N Sacramento Ave. 

  • 5624 W. Diversey Ave. 


BACK 2 BUSINESS GRANT WEBINAR

My office is seeking applications for our Summer 2023 Internship Program. 

Our office is looking to hire a summer intern who’s passionate about government, social, racial, and economic justice. We are committed to ensuring that our interns gain new skills, have fun, and make connections for future careers in government, policy, and community organizing. 

Students can learn more and apply here: bit.ly/GuzzardiInternship23.

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