McLean County Times

Throughout the nation, government funds have played a significant role in reviving the economy in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Some of those funds were made available to many of state Rep. Dan Brady’s (R-Normal) constituents through the Business Interruption Grant program. A dozen businesses shared $240,000 to aid in recovery. In a news release, Brady has reported a second round of BIG grant awards is being made available to the public albeit with a different focus but a familiar purpose.

The second round will lean toward downstate businesses with a special emphasis on the arts and that includes music and performing arts centers, museums, movie theaters and other entertainment venues.

State Rep. Dan Brady | File photo

The arts have had its share of struggles during the shutdown, suffering alongside other businesses.

“I encourage all local businesses who believe they qualify for this round of grants to apply as soon as possible,” Brady said.

The Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity has set aside $220 million for the latest round of BIG grant awards to be dispersed in different increments. A total of $60 million is reserved for those heavily distressed such as movie theaters that have been shut down unable to generate revenue. Performing arts venues and concert venues that have been eerily quiet this summer along with indoor recreation and amusement parks would be eligible for grant funds. 

Disproportionately impacted areas are eligible for $70 million in grant funds. These are areas economically distressed and hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic. Downstate businesses are eligible for the remainder of the funding, and over $100 million would also be reserved for rural communities. Priority businesses will receive special attention and agriculture will have $5 million directly set aside for livestock production disruption.

Businesses will be able to use the funding for a variety of options that include payroll, rent, utilities and other costs.