AURORA – Illinois Assistant Senate Majority Leader Linda Holmes (D-Aurora) is pleased to learn 19 businesses in the 42^nd District are receiving financial assistance from the Business Interruption Grant program to help offset financial losses stemming from the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. More funding is available, and Holmes is encouraging more businesses to apply.

“Small business owners have been some of the people hardest hit by the financial impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic,” Holmes said. “These grants will help them keep their doors open and their employees paid while keeping the community safe.”

In the district Holmes represents, 19 businesses are receiving a combined $1,155,000. Each business received between $5,000 and $150,000 to help cover the costs of payroll, rent, utilities and other working capital during the time they have experienced interruptions due to the pandemic.

The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity awarded the grants this week, as part of the second round of the BIG program. However, applications will remain open until all of the funding is spent.

“These grants are extremely helpful – but nothing beats the support of the local community,” Holmes said. “Please, continue to shop at locally owned small businesses or purchase carryout or curbside pickup from restaurants. This is particularly important when shopping for the holidays.”

The BIG program is the largest state-run economic support program formed in response to the financial losses caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Applications are available on the DCEO website.