The SBAC was thrilled that policymakers enacted a program to support Illinois chambers of commerce still struggling to recover from the pandemic. Here is the link to our initial blog about this program and the corresponding appropriation of funding allocated in the budget.
Here is the latest information we have received from the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity on the chamber relief program.
- We just received word that GATA Pre-qualification and SAM.gov are not needed for chambers to apply. An exception is for chambers that received 80% or more of their annual revenue last year from federal sources.
- We understand that chambers may be able to apply in November, although December seems more likely.
- DCEO will provide extensive technical assistance and partner with SBAC on outreach for eligible chambers once the program is up and running.
SBAC 2023 Holiday Party
The Small Business Advocacy Council invites you to celebrate the holidays at the George Street Pub on December 14th. Join us for this wonderful opportunity to connect with small business owners, professionals, small business advocates and our SBAC Board of Advisors. Registration is free for SBAC Business Supporters or $10pp for guests. Event includes light appetizers and…
Twenty-Eight Groups Send Letter to Chicago City Council Members on PTO Ordinance
City Council has passed a PTO ordinance that provides greatly expanded paid and sick leave for Chicago employees. The ordinance, however, subjects small businesses to crushing penalties and lawsuits. Many small businesses will also be unable to comply with the mandates of the ordinance by the end of the year. This is an open letter…
Empowering New Businesses: Illinois Launches Back to Business (B2B) NewBiz Program
Illinois Launches Back to Business (B2B) NewBiz Program The application window for the B2B NewBiz program opens on November 30, 2023, and will remain open until January 11, 2024. The Small Business Advocacy Council has advocated for a program that provides grant funding to businesses that launched in 2020 (prior to the pandemic) and in…
