CREST HILL – With strong support from State Senator Meg Loughran Cappel, a total of $280,000 was awarded to 11 local businesses in an effort to uplift and support the restaurant industry.

“Small businesses play a vital role in our communities by providing essential jobs and boosting our local economies,” said Loughran Cappel (D-Shorewood). “We made a commitment to invest and support small businesses. This funding will continue to build back our restaurant industry for all to enjoy.”

The Back to Business grant program provides recovery grants for small businesses throughout the state, with an emphasis on businesses in the hardest hit industries. Through the Back to Business and Business Interruption Grant programs, the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity has provided over $535 million to more than 15,000 businesses since the start of the pandemic.

Eleven area restaurants across the 49th District will receive a combined total of $280,000 through this round of Back to Business grants.

“The Back to Business grant program continues to have a positive impact on small businesses,” said Loughran Cappel. “I will continue supporting our local restaurants, caterers and food trucks that are the backbone of our communities.”

A full list of awardees can be found here.