Boosting small business support throughout Illinois, Governor JB Pritzker, alongside the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO), has allocated $5 million to local chambers of commerce through the Back to Business (B2B) Local Chambers program. The initiative, as outlined on the Illinois official government website, aims to help 151 grant recipients overcome the hardships wrought by the COVID-19 pandemic. As reported by the state of Illinois, this program specifically targets those local entities that have borne the brunt of economic decline during the crisis.
Emphasizing the role of small businesses as "the backbone of our growing economy," Governor Pritzker highlighted the intent of these grants to enhance the capacity of chambers of commerce to market and develop their local areas, provide professional development, and generally elevate economic growth. Tackling the setback of revenue declines between 2019 and 2020, funding was allocated based on documented financial impacts. This framework ensures that the assistance reaches those in true need—a reflection of the state's tailored approach to economic rejuvenation.
The B2B Local Chambers program's distribution of funds was predicated on specific eligibility requirements, including an upper revenue limit of $1 million for the chambers. In her statement, Lt. Governor Juliana Stratton underscored the criticality of local chambers as "advocates and champions for economic growth," a sentiment echoed by DCEO Director Kristin Richards who acknowledged the pivotal role chambers will play in the state's comprehensive effort to fuel development in every corner of Illinois.
Responses from recipients paint a hopeful picture. Dawn Mushill, President/CEO of the Troy/Maryville/St. Jacob/Marine Chamber of Commerce, in a statement obtained by the government news release, expressed gratitude, recognizing the $50,000 received as a positive impact that will ripple through their community for years. Additionally, Sarah Wilson of the Uptown United & Uptown Chamber of Commerce touched on the support the grant provides in maintaining high-quality, customized services despite escalating operational costs.
Economic revitalization remains a priority for Illinois lawmakers. "The State of Illinois' B2B Local Chambers program is critical to helping local chambers of commerce continue moving in a positive trajectory after the devastating effects of the pandemic," Senate Majority Appropriations Leader Elgie Sims, Jr. stated. These efforts are part of a broader strategy including the deployment of more than $1.5 billion towards pandemic-struck businesses through various programs since the onslaught of the pandemic, as per an Illinois government press release.
