CHICAGO – With the second round of Back to Business grants currently accepting applications, State Senator Robert Peters (D-Chicago) is pleased to announce nearly $1 million in grants awarded to businesses in the area he represents.

“The COVID-19 pandemic was one of the most difficult times in recent memory, and a lot of small businesses have been struggling to keep the lights on and the doors open,” Peters said. “The people of our community rely on so many of these businesses for their everyday needs, and I’m glad to see them get the support they need through these grants.”

Twenty-four businesses in the district Peters represents have already received $925,000. These include restaurants, salons and travel agencies, demonstrating the diversity of the local small business community and how many different kinds of businesses are eligible for grants.

Overall, the B2B program will provide $250 million in American Rescue Plan dollars for small businesses negatively affected by the pandemic. Grants will range from $5,000 to $150,000 per business and can be used to cover a wide range of operations, such as staff and overhead costs. Peters is encouraging other small businesses to apply.

“There are still funds available for any small businesses that could use it,” Peters said. “I whole-heartedly encourage small businesses owners who are in need of help to apply before the Oct. 13 deadline.”

Priority is given to businesses in hard-hit industries, in hard-hit areas, and with revenues less than $5 million, as well as businesses that have not yet received any government assistance. Eligibility guidelines are also available in: Spanish, Polish, Chinese, Hindi, and Arabic.

Learn more about the Back to Business grant program and start an application on the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity website. The deadline to submit an application is Oct. 13.