The Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) has reopened for both first- and second-draw applicants. Funding is available for businesses that previously used PPP which have:

Funding is also available to first-time borrowers that:

As was the case in previous rounds, payroll, rent, covered mortgage interest and utilities expenses are eligible for forgiveness.

First-time applicants can apply here, and returning applicants can apply here. Visit the Small Business Administration website for more information.

Congratulations to the 40 Tinley Park businesses that received funds via the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity's (DECO) Business Interruption Grants (BIG).

The grants provided more than $200 million in economic relief for small businesses hit by COVID-19. Grant funds may be used toward operational expenses, including PPE, rent and utilities, payroll and more.

The Village of Tinley Park is committed to assuring the long-term viability of the community, assisting with business start-ups and supporting tourism. One of the key goals is to develop a signature downtown where residents can live, shop, dine and be entertained.

To support this effort, the Village is offering the Oak Park Avenue Playbook – a series of grants specifically designed to encourage Downtown Tinley business owners to invest in and improve their respective properties. Available programs include the Facade Improvement Grant, the Code Compliance Grant, the Sign Grant and the Retail Grant.

Visit the Village website for more information on how to apply.

The Village of Tinley Park recently sent out business license applications, which are due Feb. 28. The Village requires that all businesses in Tinley Park have a valid business license. Village business licenses are issued on a calendar-year basis.

For more information on business licenses, including how to obtain a Change of Use/Owner permit, please visit the Village website.

The U.S. Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship has released a guide containing information about the major programs and initiatives that are either already available or will soon become available from the Small Business Administration (SBA) to assist small business owners and nonprofit organizations in dealing with the economic fallout of COVID-19. The guide also provides information on additional tax provisions that are outside the scope of SBA.