ARLINGTON HEIGHTS — To help small businesses continue to recover from losses sustained in the pandemic, State Senator Ann Gillespie announced that 14 local restaurants have received grants through the Back to Business program.

“Many small businesses are still recovering from the financial impact of the last few years,” said Gillespie (D-Arlington Heights). “The Back to Business program has provided a vital investment in the hardest-hit industries in our state, including restaurants, allowing them to continue providing services our communities enjoy and rely on.”

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. Fourteen restaurants in Gillespie’s district will receive a total of $610,000.

Businesses across the state were awarded $175 million in this round of funding. Through the Back to Business and Business Interruption Grant programs, DCEO has provided more than $535 million to more than 15,000 businesses since the start of the pandemic.

“Restaurants are at the heart of our communities where people come together to celebrate, connect and earn a living,” said Gillespie. “These relief grants are a lifeline for small businesses and their employees.”

For more information about the Back to Business grant program, visit DCEO’s website.