Over the past several months, we have witnessed a level of devastation among our neighborhood small businesses unlike anything we’ve seen before. Foot traffic and sales have dropped. Many businesses are operating with limited staff. For business owners, every single day has become a test of strength, resilience, and resourcefulness.

That is why the IHCC is launching a microgrant program, an immediate and focused effort to raise funds that will be distributed directly to the businesses in our community that need help now. These grants will provide a much-needed boost to help cover rent, pay employees, or replenish essential inventory.

The Illinois Hispanic Chamber of Commerce is helping businesses meet the extraordinary challenges presented by federal immigration enforcement activities targeting immigrant communities throughout Chicago and the suburbs, offering enhanced business support services and workshops. Now, the IHCC Foundation (501c3) is sponsoring a microgrant program to help small businesses that have suffered. We need your help to fund the program, which will offer $1,500 – $5,000 microgrants that will then be distributed to affected businesses.

Impacted businesses may include

• Brick-and-mortar shops facing reduced foot traffic

• Seasonal construction or landscaping businesses whose workforce and schedules have been disrupted

The tax-deductible donations will fund microgrants of $1,000 – $5,000 to eligible Illinois businesses that are registered and in good standing with the state. Additional details for donors and applicants, including eligibility criteria, are listed below.

For those who would like to apply for the grant online, click here.

For those who would like to apply through a paper copy or submission through email, please see below downloadable PDF applications in Spanish and English.

Applications will be accepted on a rolling deadline basis, as determined by availability of funds.

Our first round of grant applications will close on February 20th. For questions, email [email protected].

Eligibility

• Must be in business for at least 2 years and in good standing with the State of Illinois

• Businesses with 10 or less employees

• Only one business / location per owner eligible

• Include a written explanation, in your own words, describing how the actions of immigration authorities affected your business, including any documented loss of income and mentions of specific timelines (fewer customers, drop in sales, reduced hours, cancellation of events, etc.)