***As of 3/30/2020: The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act was passed by Congress***
Additional detailed information will be communicated in the days to come on the CARES Act. The federal agencies involved are working diligently to get program rules and processes in place to small businesses as soon as possible. However, it is premature to discuss program implementation specifics of the CARES Act because that work is still being done and program details may change. Our focus at the SBDC is providing our small businesses, lenders, and other small business stakeholders with information that reflects the actual program implementation of the legislation with associated rules and requirements.
The information our center has at this time (as of 3/30/2020) is as follows:
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The programs and initiatives in the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act that was just passed by Congress are intended to assist business owners with whatever needs they have right now.
-
When implemented, there will be many new resources available for small businesses, as well as certain non-profits and other employers.
-
You can view the CARES Act Guide to see information about the major programs and initiatives that will soon be available from the Small Business Administration (SBA) to address these needs, as well as some additional tax provisions that are outside the scope of SBA.
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Struggling to get started? The following questions might help point you in the right direction.
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Do you need:
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Capital to cover the cost of retaining employees?
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The Paycheck Protection Program starting on page 2 might be right for you.
-
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A quick infusion of a smaller amount of cash to cover you right now?
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Look into an Emergency Economic Injury Grant starting on page 7.
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To ease your fears about keeping up with payments on your current or potential SBA loan?
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The Small Business Debt Relief Program starting on page 6 could help.
-
-
Quality, free counseling to help you navigate this uncertain economic time?
-
Look into the resource partners in the Counseling and Training section on page 9.
-
-
***As of 3/30/2020: The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act was passed by Congress***
Additional detailed information will be communicated in the days to come on the CARES Act. The federal agencies involved are working diligently to get program rules and processes in place to small businesses as soon as possible. However, it is premature to discuss program implementation specifics of the CARES Act because that work is still being done and program details may change. Our focus at the SBDC is providing our small businesses, lenders, and other small business stakeholders with information that reflects the actual program implementation of the legislation with associated rules and requirements.
The information our center has at this time (as of 3/30/2020) is as follows:
-
The programs and initiatives in the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act that was just passed by Congress are intended to assist business owners with whatever needs they have right now.
-
When implemented, there will be many new resources available for small businesses, as well as certain non-profits and other employers.
-
You can view the CARES Act Guide to see information about the major programs and initiatives that will soon be available from the Small Business Administration (SBA) to address these needs, as well as some additional tax provisions that are outside the scope of SBA.
-
Struggling to get started? The following questions might help point you in the right direction.
-
Do you need:
-
Capital to cover the cost of retaining employees?
-
The Paycheck Protection Program starting on page 2 might be right for you.
-
-
A quick infusion of a smaller amount of cash to cover you right now?
-
Look into an Emergency Economic Injury Grant starting on page 7.
-
-
To ease your fears about keeping up with payments on your current or potential SBA loan?
-
The Small Business Debt Relief Program starting on page 6 could help.
-
-
Quality, free counseling to help you navigate this uncertain economic time?
-
Look into the resource partners in the Counseling and Training section on page 9.
-
-
***As of 3/30/2020: Illinois Department of Human Services is assessing the acute needs for PPE items ***
Direct from the Illinois Department of Human Services:
In order to understand the acute needs for Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) among community-based organizations across the state, please consider completing this short survey before April 1.
-
The survey is designed to more precisely understand statewide PPE needs.
-
Please note that completing the survey, unfortunately, is not a guarantee that you will receive the supplies, and it is not a purchasing order.
-
As you fill out the survey, please give your best estimate of need over the next 30-90 days, accounting for both your organization’s staff and customer/client populations.
***As of 3/30/2020: Illinois Department of Human Services is assessing the acute needs for PPE items ***
Direct from the Illinois Department of Human Services:
In order to understand the acute needs for Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) among community-based organizations across the state, please consider completing this short survey before April 1.
-
The survey is designed to more precisely understand statewide PPE needs.
-
Please note that completing the survey, unfortunately, is not a guarantee that you will receive the supplies, and it is not a purchasing order.
-
As you fill out the survey, please give your best estimate of need over the next 30-90 days, accounting for both your organization’s staff and customer/client populations.
***As of 3/30/2020: Illinois Department of Human Services is assessing the acute needs for PPE items ***
Direct from the Illinois Department of Human Services:
In order to understand the acute needs for Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) among community-based organizations across the state, please consider completing this short survey before April 1.
-
The survey is designed to more precisely understand statewide PPE needs.
-
Please note that completing the survey, unfortunately, is not a guarantee that you will receive the supplies, and it is not a purchasing order.
-
As you fill out the survey, please give your best estimate of need over the next 30-90 days, accounting for both your organization’s staff and customer/client populations.
***As of 3/27/2020: Illinois DCEO is calling for your support in donations of PPE items***
Under the leadership of Erin Guthrie, Director, the Department of Commerce & Economic Opportunity (DCEO) recognizes the tremendous impact that the COVID-19 pandemic is having, not only on businesses, but our communities and families as well.
Not surprisingly, during this challenge Illinoisans are stepping up and pulling together. Many businesses and organizations have already reached out to DCEO to offer support, donations and assistance in any way they can. Their contributions are much appreciated by us all. For example, iBio.org a Chicago-based life sciences industry association, is coordinating efforts from among their membership to donate much-needed medical supplies vital for our Illinois communities.
We are asking for your support in providing our hospitals, Illinois doctors and first responders that are in desperate need of items. For donations of personal protective equipment, please email: PPE.donations@illinois.gov.
Here’s the list of items they are looking for:
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Ventilators – LTV1200 Vyaire/ReVel Carefusion or BiPAP v60 Phillips Respironics
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Masks: N-95, ear loop, or surgical
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Gowns: Isolation or non-descript
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Gloves: Nitrile, sterile, or surgical
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Eye Protection: Face shields and goggles
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Infection Control Kits
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Hand Sanitizer: Any size
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Disinfectant Wipes: Any size
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Thermometers: Forehead only
All donated items should be in the manufacture's original packaging and unopened. When emailing items available for donation to PPE.donations@illinois.gov it is essential to list the items’ current location and exact quantity in an “each” type standard as opposed to boxes/pallet, etc. We will then be in touch about the next logistical steps. Please note that if you have smaller quantities of these items, you may redirect or donate to your nearby police, fire, and ambulance services in order to minimize your travel and other logistical steps with your donation.
For non-PPE items, tangible or financial, please email: CEO.BusinessDonations@illinois.gov.
“Make”: Manufacturers who are ramping up or altering their operations to provide more essential items should contact the Illinois Manufacturers Association (IMA) at: https://ima-net.org/covid-19/supplies/
“Sell”: Wholesalers, suppliers, or manufacturers that already have items on hand to sell or will in the future, should contact: COVID.procurement@illinois.gov.
The following items are in greatest need:
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N-95 masks
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Gloves (non-powdered)
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Gowns (impermeable)
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Isolation gowns (all sizes)
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Surgical masks
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Regular masks, ear loop
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Procedure masks with face shields
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Goggles
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Face shields
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Sanitizing wipes
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Purple-top wipes
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Hand sanitizers
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Digital thermometers
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PAPR hoods
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Ventilators – LTV1200 Vyaire/ReVel Carefusion or BiPAP v60 Phillips Respironics
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Entrepreneurial Needs Assessment:
Tell Us What You Need
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Maker Space: A makerspace is a collaborative, interdisciplinary workspace designed to foster creativity, learning, experimentation, and knowledge sharing. It integrates a wide range of advanced and traditional tools, serving as an inclusive environment accessible to individuals of all ages, from young learners to entrepreneurs. Equipped with cutting-edge resources such as 3D printers, laser cutters, CNC machines, soldering stations, and traditional amenities like sewing machines, makerspaces provide a conducive setting for innovation and hands-on creation.
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Non-Profit Coworking Space: A physical facility strategically located (like Uptown or Downtown), designed to function as a central hub for entrepreneurial ecosystem activities. Coworking spaces effectively address several fundamental requirements for freelancers, entrepreneurs, and startups, with a primary focus on reducing the financial burden and logistical challenges of securing a workspace. These spaces are often sustained through member contributions and offer a versatile environment for collaborative work and networking.
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Startup Accelerator: A startup accelerator is a structured initiative aimed at expediting the growth of early-stage companies, typically by offering financial support and receiving equity in return. Accelerators commonly require that participating startups should already possess a minimum viable product or a dedicated team before applying. Once accepted, startups engage in an intensive period of development, usually spanning 3 to 6 months, where they receive valuable mentorship, resources, and access to networks, facilitating rapid expansion and progress.
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Entrepreneur Book Club: An assembly of dedicated entrepreneurs converging to search into the influential literature that has played a pivotal role in shaping the startup landscape. Within this community, through interactive and insightful discussions, participants dissect the ideas, tactics, and insights offered by each book. These discussions serve as a source of practical wisdom that members can directly apply to their individual entrepreneurial endeavors.
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One Million Cups: One Million Cups is a weekly gathering that welcomes budding entrepreneurs and businesses with less than 5 years of operation to come together over coffee and share their unique journeys. Each presenter is allocated a 6 to 10 minute slot for their story, followed by a 15 to 20 minute Q&A session. This serves as a facilitating platform, offering an inclusive and supportive environment for entrepreneurs. Here, they collaboratively address business challenges, uncover opportunities, and engage in a dynamic exchange of ideas. This event is not about pitching; it's an invaluable opportunity to learn, cooperate, and foster growth.
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Business Incubator: A purpose-driven entity meticulously structured to expedite the development and prosperity of entrepreneurial enterprises by offering an extensive suite of business assistance, resources, and services. These encompass physical workspace, financial backing, mentorship, shared facilities, and networking opportunities, all aimed at catalyzing the growth and success of startup ventures..
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Sector Specific Mentoring: A specialized mentoring program involving accomplished local business owners and entrepreneurs who have demonstrated success within a particular industry or sector. Aspiring individuals seeking to enter that sector benefit from the mentor's expertise, gaining insights into initial steps, funding options, and best practices relevant to their specific field. For instance, a prosperous restaurant owner may mentor individuals with aspirations to launch their own restaurant, guiding them through the intricacies of this niche industry.
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Angel Investor Network: An Angel Investor Network comprises affluent individuals who play a pivotal role in providing financial support to business ventures and startups at the beginning stages of development. These investors are frequently seasoned entrepreneurs, often serving as founders or CEOs in their own right. They commit their personal capital in exchange for equity ownership in the companies they invest in, nurturing these businesses through their initial stages of growth.
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Regular Networking Events: Recurring networking gatherings, held either weekly or monthly, with a focus on accessibility and inclusivity. These events offer a distinct platform for broadening one's professional network, uniting individuals who share common interests across diverse industries. They foster an environment conducive to cultivating fresh connections, with the potential to evolve into valuable partnerships and collaborations in the future.
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Pitch Competition: A business pitch competition is a competitive event in which entrepreneurs showcase their business ideas to a panel of judges or potential investors, with the objective of securing funding and support. Contestants deliver brief and compelling presentations, aiming to illustrate the feasibility and potential of their concepts, all in pursuit of winning investment.