McLean County Times

The town of Normal plans to distribute $450,000 in funds the town received from the federal CARES Act to small business in an effort to help relieve some of the mounting closings and economic recline. This plan has been launched under a program referred to as the Town of Normal Small Business Relief Program. 

To qualify, businesses must meet several key requirements, including a physical examination of the property, 50 or fewer employees, have been in business on Jan 1 of this year, show need, and be current on all tax obligations. 

A task force will be providing businesses that are eligible with grants totaling up to $15,000, separated into three funds of $5,000 each. One will be aimed at helping fund operations, another at digital marketing, and the final one for business modifications, improvements, and renovations that will help to make the business safer during the pandemic. 

The federal CARES ACT has helped many counties provide funding in need areas to get through the pandemic | File Photo

“The town created these categories based on feedback from local business owners who shared the devastation they have endured during the pandemic. The town of Normal is dedicated to local business owners. Sadly, we cannot replace their lost revenue or magically increase customer traffic. This program allows us to provide some assistance," said Hanson.

Small businesses around the country have been heavily impacted by restrictions put in place as a result of coronavirus. Without the ability to gather more than a handful of people, conducting business during the pandemic has certainly been a challenge. 

“Like those across the country, businesses in Normal continue to be heavily impacted because of COVID-19. The Town of Normal Small Business Relief Program can provide supplemental assistance to those hit especially hard," said Eric Hanson, assistant City Manager.