Mayor Deborah Frank Feinen, City Of Champaign | City Of Champaign website
Mayor Deborah Frank Feinen, City Of Champaign | City Of Champaign website
The City of Champaign, working with the Champaign County Economic Development Center, has announced a second round of its New and Growing Business Programs. These initiatives aim to support small businesses within the city by offering financial help and technical assistance to both new entrepreneurs and existing business owners.
Under the New Business Program, entrepreneurs who are starting a new business or those whose businesses are less than two years old can apply for up to $10,000 in reimbursement. Home-based businesses are eligible for this program. The Growing Business Program offers up to $20,000 in reimbursement for established small businesses that have operated for more than two years and have physical storefronts in Champaign. Home-based businesses do not qualify for this program.
Businesses must be located within the City of Champaign and meet specific criteria to be eligible. Applications will be accepted until October 26, 2025, with recipients expected to be announced before the end of the year.
Applicants are encouraged to work with the Small Business Development Center (SBDC) to improve their chances. According to the announcement: “New Business applicants who have attended the Starting Your Business in Illinois workshop, and Growing Business applicants who have met with the SBDC for business advising, in the past six months will receive an extra point on their application scoring.” The city also suggests using resources from SBDC’s business plan outline or example plans and services at the Champaign Public Library.
Informational sessions about these programs will take place at the Champaign Public Library on September 23 from noon to 2 p.m., as well as online on September 25 from 1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m.
For more details about eligibility requirements, application links, or webinar registration, visit https://champaignil.gov/city-incentives/ or contact the Planning and Development Department at 217-403-8800 or via email.
“Don’t miss this chance to start or expand your business in Champaign!”
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