Get support
Resources to help business owners and nonprofits:
- Phase 4 guidelines: Region 9, which includes Lake County, is in Phase 4 of the Restore Illinois Plan.
- Community guidance for businesses, from Lake County.
- Lake County Forward is a collaborative, whole-of-government initiative for community health and economic recovery.
- Lake County Partners: Resources and guideline for local businesses.
- Small Business Survival Guide Coronavirus (COVID-19) Northeastern Illinois, a PDF published by the Illinois Small Business Development Center at the College of Lake County.
Apply for funding
The funding situation is constantly changing. The Illinois State Treasurer has published a COVID-19 Financial Tool Kit to help small businesses and nonprofits. To view it,
VISIT illinoistreasurer.gov
U.S. Congressman Brad Schneider's office keeps track of current funding options for businesses and nonprofits. For current options, read on and/or
VISIT schneider.house.gov/covid-19/help-small-business
Illinois State Treasurer Bridge Loans
The state Treasurer has partnered with approved financial institutions to provide loans—either lower rate loans or loans to a business or non-profit that would not otherwise qualify—to Illinois small businesses impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Get info and apply:
VISIT illinoistreasurer.gov
Paycheck Protection Program for Small Businesses
To provide continued support to small businesses, the U.S. Small Business Administration has opened the second round of the federal Paycheck Protection Program (PPP). Learn more
Lake County Partners hosted a webinar providing insights into the latest important information about the PPP program: View the presentation.
Small Business Administration Assistance
Small businesses, private nonprofits, or those who are self-employed and facing financial hardships related to the coronavirus pandemic can get help during this difficult time. Options include the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL), SBA Express Bridge Loans, and SBA Debt Relief. Get more info/apply:
VISIT sba.gov/funding-programs/loans/coronavirus-relief-options
CALL 800-659-2955
EMAIL disastercustomerservice@sba.gov
View Restore Illinois, the phased plan to reopen businesses across the state. Lake County is in Phase 4.