A new grant program launched in January by Evanston's Economic Development Authority aims to help small businesses still struggling with the long-term economic effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. The purpose is
The Small Business Recovery Program awards grants of up to $25,000 per applicant.The city will use $250,000 to fund the program. From the $3 million Evanston Thrives initiative.
Applications will open on February 14, and eligible businesses with 50 or fewer employees will need to demonstrate how the pandemic has negatively affected them. You should also explain how you plan to use the funds.
The city continues to accept applications, and the program aims to recognize the continued struggles of small businesses amid mixed signals from retailers and vacancy trends.
“I think it's really great that the city is willing to spend so much money and try to direct that money to local businesses,” Andy Vick said. Executive Director of Downtown Evanston. “Many businesses don't have the additional resources to do things like add new signage out front or update their facades.”
The Small Business Recovery Program is made possible by Evanston's allocation of remaining American Rescue Plan Act funding. During the pandemic, the federal government sent billions of dollars to local governments, which then decided how to spend the influx of money on relief efforts.
Many companies have emerged strong from the hardships of the pandemic.Matthew Abitbol He started Commonwealth Running Company downtown just before the pandemic, but said things are “going well” and he has no intention of applying for grants.
But many other businesses are still recovering. Applications for the grant have already exceeded the allocated funds, said Catherine Gothic, who leads the Main Dempster Mile Business District, and Katie Borden, the city's economic development coordinator.
“I didn't know it was this universal,” Gothic said. “I was disappointed to hear that many businesses are still facing difficulties.”
As of January, downtown businesses were still mixed message As for the economic health of Evanston's busiest district, retail occupancy has improved, but office vacancies persist. At the same time, locations like Church Street Plaza Recent increase in tenants.
The new grant program is one of many initiatives the city has already launched. for example, sustain evanston We focus on projects that promote sustainability. Other initiatives include an entrepreneur support program for new businesses and a storefront modernization program to help businesses improve their appearance.
“Any connections like that are good,” Abitbol said. “If downtown, and downtown prosperity, is important to the city of Evanston, we need to understand where our businesses are and what they need.”
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