City of Champaign Announces Two Small Business Development Programs

Calling all Small Business Owners! The City of Champaign recently announced two new small business assistance programs to promote business development in Champaign. The "New Business Program" and the "Growing Business Program" both provide reimbursement for professional services including bookkeeping, point of sale subscriptions, human resources, accounting, website, branding, and design fees, and even your businesses legal fees!

Under the New Business Program, the City of Champaign will reimburse up to $10,000 for eligible business costs and will also provide technical support to the business. In order to apply, business owners must submit an application and business plan. Do you need assistance working on your application or business plan? Be sure to attend the Small Business Development Center's "Starting Your Business in Illinois" workshop on Tuesday, September 24th from 10am-12pm located at 1817 S. Neil Street, Suite 100. To see the full requirements and application, click here.

Under the Growing Business Program (businesses more than two years old), the City will reimburse up to $20,000 for eligible business costs while also providing technical support. Once granted, in order to access the full award, business owners must attend technical sessions or meet with the Illinois Small Business Development Center employees to discuss specific challenges the business is currently facing. To see the full requirements and application, click here.

There is a short application window, so be sure to apply by October 20th for consideration. Award winners will be announced in November.