Reminders: All previous bulletins and other resources listed at
www.gpcovid.com
. Resource requests from our community institutions listed at the end of this bulletin. Send any questions to
bizinfo@greaterpeoriaedc.org
.
REMINDER: Illinois Hospitality Emergency Grant Application Due April 1
The State of Illinois is offering grants of up to $50,000 for hotels and up to $25,000 for bars and restaurants. Applicants will be chosen via a lottery, not based on merit. The application is very simple, but only those who have completed an application by April 1 will be entered. Decisions announced on April 4. An FAQ on the program, including a description of the information you will need, can be found
here
. More information and the application portal can be found
here
.
Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) Checklist
The U.S. Chamber of Commerce has developed a very helpful checklist and guide for the Paycheck Protection Program
here
. All business owners should review the information in this guide and other information at
www.gpcovid.com
and contact their bank to start the application process.
Childcare Resources
From
Ready Nation
: Like schools, most child care programs have been asked to close. But many emergency and essential workers continue to need reliable care for their kids. Thus, the state is in the process of establishing a series of “emergency child care” options – settings that could operate under more flexible-than-usual rules, while still offering kids and families crucial assistance. Existing, interested providers could apply to re-open in this process; other, new providers could explore options for starting-up. See below for more information:
·
How to find emergency child care – Call 888-228-1146 or visit
here.
·
General guidance on establishing emergency-care options, including rules, a license application, list of essential workers, and background-check authorization –
click here
.
·
Related FAQ, including info on the closure of normal child care operations –
click here
.
Reminder: Families First Act Goes Into Effect April 1
The Families First Act grant emergency paid sick leave to employees of businesses with fewer than 500 employees and expands family and medical leave. It takes effect on April 1, 2020. The US Department of Labor has an FAQ
here
.
RESOURCE REQUESTS
UnityPoint Health: UnityPoint is seeking personal protective equipment (PPE) and other medical supplies. They are als in search of medical personnel to help them prepare in the event that there is an influx of sick patients. Information
here.
OSF Healthcare: OSF seeking personal protective equipment (PPE), ventilators and other supplies. Information
here.
Peoria Innovation Alliance: PIA is gathering the maker community to discuss ways individuals and small companies can make supplies like masks. Information
here.
Chris Setti
Chief Executive Officer
Greater Peoria Economic Development Council