The Economic Development Corporation of Decatur-Macon County has created this page full of business and community information as it relates to COVID-19. Please share this page with others as you see fit. We’re updating frequently as new resources become available.
We understand that each individual and business is different – and we’re here to help. If you have a question, want to share information about your company’s situation, and/or are in need of resources, please contact us here.
This page will be continuously updated with business and community information & resources.
For more information about the State of Illinois’ current Phase, please click here.
BUSINESS FINANCIAL RESOURCES: NATIONAL LOANS
SBA Disaster Loan (Economic Injury Disaster Loan)
The U.S. Small Business Administration is offering low-interest federal disaster loans for working capital to small businesses suffering substantial economic injury as a result of the coronavirus (COVID-19). For more information on these loans, click here.
With additional funding provided by the new COVID-19 relief package, SBA will resume processing EIDL Loan and Advance applications that are already in the queue on a first come, first-served basis. Click here for further information on the availability of the EIDL portal to receive new applications (including those from agricultural enterprises).
BUSINESS FINANCIAL RESOURCES: STATE OF ILLINOIS LOANS
LISC State Farm Small Business Relief Fund Loan Program
LISC provides loans from $75,000 to $500,000 to small businesses through the LISC Rapid Relief and Resiliency Fund. The program allows LISC to make loans similar to banks, but with more flexible credit standards to reach businesses that might not qualify for conventional bank financing. Learn more here and complete the business questionnaire for eligibility here.
Bridge Loan Program
The Illinois State Treasurer has announced a bridge loan program. For additional information on this program, please click here to connect to the Treasurer’s website or read the press release here.
BUSINESS FINANCIAL RESOURCES: GRANTS
Back to Business (B2B) Grant Program
The $250 million Back to Business (B2B) grant program aims to deploy small businesses recovery grants for those hit hardest by the COVID-19 pandemic. The B2B grant program builds on the success of last year’s Business Interruption Grant (BIG) program – an equity-focused business relief program, which directed $290 million to 9,000 businesses in 98 communities across Illinois. Click here to learn more.
SBA Restaurant Revitalization Fund (RRF) Program
The purpose of the SBA Restaurant Revitalization Fund (RRF) program is to support the restaurant industry by providing funding to those that have suffered significant pandemic-related revenue loss. The RRF also includes specific requirements to ensure equitable distribution to small business concerns owned by women, veterans, and socially and economically disadvantaged applicants. For more information click here.
Small Business COVID Assistance Grant
The City of Decatur Small Business COVID Assistance Grant is a program providing short term assistance to businesses that are located and have employees in low to moderate income census tract areas. Assistance is provided to businesses with up to twenty-five (25) employees not including the owner. Additionally, the program is set-up to pay the vendor, utility (electric, power, or gas), landlord, and/or mortgage company directly for past due bills only. Program assistance will be a minimum of $2,000 up to $10,000 per business. Grant applications will open on February 16th at 12 PM CST. Click here for more information.
EMPLOYER RESOURCES
SBA Guide for Impacted Businesses
Small businesses are encouraged to do their part to keep their employees, customers, and themselves healthy. To learn more, click here.
Macon County Health Department
For the most up-to-date information about COVID-19 in Macon County and preparedness resources, please visit the Macon County Health Department (MCHD) website.
United Way’s 2-1-1
2-1-1 is an easy-to-remember telephone number that connects callers with free information and referrals for community services in Macon, DeWitt, Moultrie, Piatt & Shelby counties. If you’re looking for help and assistance, give 2-1-1 a call today. For more information, click here. Also visit the United Way’s COVID-19 Resource page here.
Restaurant Guide
To help our local restaurants during the mandated COVID-19 shutdown, the City of Decatur has created a delivery and curbside guide.
Food Resources
Businesses and school districts have worked together to help provide food resources for families who may need it. Here is a list of food resources.
Coronavirus Scams
Scammers are taking advantage of fears surrounding the COVID-19. Check out some of these listed scams to help you stay safe.
Crisis Counselors
Anxious about Coronavirus? If you are needing help and would like to talk to an anonymous crisis counselor, text HELLO to 741741 to connect. For more information, click here.
Additionally, the Illinois Department of Human Services’ Mental Health Division has launched a free-of-charge emotional support text line, Call4Calm, for Illinois residents who are experiencing stress or mental health concerns related to COVID-19. Individuals who would like to speak to a mental health counselor can text TALK or HABLAR for Spanish to 552020.
State of Illinois Website
