July 20, 2020
SIU’s Small Business Development Center can help childcare centers seek grant funding
CARBONDALE, Ill. — The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity will soon be releasing grant funding to licensed child care centers affected by COVID-19, and the Illinois Small Business Development Center at Southern Illinois University Carbondale is offering to help providers apply for the grant. There is no cost for the assistance.
Millions available statewide
The state is making $270 million in Child Care Restoration Grant funds available beginning the week of July 20-24, according to Greg Bouhl, director of Illinois Small Business Development Center.
Licensed childcare centers were closed during the first two phases of the state’s COVID-19 Restore Illinois plan. They are currently able to operate at 70 percent of capacity. The grant funds are being made available to help replace some of the lost revenue.
“Child care provides a vital component enabling people to go to work, and this grant funding will help them stay open,” Bouhl said.
SIU experts can help
Grant applications will be processed in the order they are received, so it’s important to submit requests early, Bouhl said. Find more information on the program and upcoming webinars at www.ilgateways.com/financial-opportunities/restoration-grants.
SIU’s SBDC is available to help with any questions licensed childcare facilities may have or aid them in completing their grant applications. For assistance, email sbdc@siu.edu or call 618/536-2424.