News

Illinois Department of Commerce Updates

  Below you will get info regarding the federal resources coming, State resources (reminder), information about two surveys for businesses and organizations, and cannabis update.     Federal Due to the recently passed federal stimulus package, your business may be eligible for aid from the federal government. Learn more about the current available options below.   ·     Paycheck Protection Program – The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) will provide $349 billion in loans through the Paycheck

Consumers Adopting to E-Commerce

Spencer Platt/Getty ImagesRETAIL Americans Adopting E-Commerce Faster Than Ever Amid PandemicE-commerce sales were up 25 percent in the middle of March compared to the start of the month. Bloomberg | Mar 31, 2020 Average daily online sales for groceries, for example, doubled by the middle of March compared with the start of the month, the study shows. Overall, e-commerce is up 25% over the same period, which compares March 13 to 15 with the first 11 days of the month. Using a longer view, grocery

Verizon Small Business Recovery Fund Grant

The Office of Minority of Economic Empowerment was recently informed of the Verizon Small Business Recovery Fund which is in partnership between Verizon and Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC). They are offering grants up to $10,000 to support small businesses. For full information regarding the grant, please visit: https://www.lisc.org/covid-19/verizon-small-business-recovery-fund/ Below is a snapshot of information regarding the grant.   Eligibility: “LISC will use the Verizon funding to

Renz Remains Open with Modified Services, LEAD Summer Application

Renz Center, as an essential service, remains operational during Governor Pritzker's stay-at-home order. We are modifying our services to comply with the CDC's safety guidelines, including delivering services remotely, social distancing and staggering/limiting appointments. Here is what we're doing right now for our clients and other programs: Clinical Services: We are open for limited hours by appointment to establish new clients and see other clients as necessary. Counselors are also using telehealth

Elgin Facility Closures and Programming Cancellations Extended, Council Meetings to Occur Virtually

Watch: Mayor Kaptain discusses the Stay at Home Order extension and how to take a short bit of your time at home to complete your 2020 Census form online.Elgin's current facility closures and programming cancellations extended through at least April 30 Elgin, IL - Consistent with the Governor's Stay at Home Order timeline, Elgin's current facility closures and class, program and event cancellations are extended through at least April 30. The regularly scheduled city council meetings on April 8 and 22 will

Illinois Trade Events

Illinois Trade Events and Opportunities   To the Illinois Export Community:   The health and safety of our employees, clients, partners and communities is our top priority. Given the developing COVID-19 outbreak, we have made some recent changes to the way we serve U.S. exporters.   Our global network of experienced trade specialists will be working virtually and is looking forward to connecting with you via email, conference call, Skype, or video conference to discuss your international business

Gov. Pritzker Announces Extension of Stay at Home Order, Suspension of On-Site Learning in Schools Through April

Chicago – Building on the state’s efforts to flatten the curve of new COVID-19 cases in Illinois and following careful consultation with experts in Illinois and across the nation, Governor JB Pritzker announced that he will sign a 30-day extension of the state’s disaster proclamation on April 1. The disaster proclamation provides the governor the authority to sign additional executive orders, extending the Stay at Home order and suspending on-site learning in K-12 schools through the month of April.   “I

McDonald's Taps Credit Line

McDonald’s Taps $1 Billion Credit Line as Backup During Coronavirus OutbreakWorld’s Largest Fast Food Chain Switches Up Menu to Streamline Kitchen Operations McDonald's tapped a $1 billion line of credit to keep the company operating smoothly during the coronavirus outbreak. (Wikimedia Commons) By Jennifer Waters CoStar NewsMarch 27, 2020 | 8:45 A.M. McDonald’s tapped a $1 billion credit line to bulk up on cash as it reworks its menu to simplify kitchen operations amid the coronavirus outbreak. The

Increased Demand for Warehouse Space

INDUSTRIAL Increased Demand for Warehouse Space and Labor Created by COVID-19 Could be a Long-Term TrendMore retail sales were already expected to move online over the past few years. The pandemic might accelerate that shift. Sebastian Obando | Mar 30, 2020 “There’s certainly good news and bad news happening in retail right now. We know that the bulking goods, the discount warehouses, the dollar stores, grocery stores are all doing very well. Most of those are national credit tenants, so if a tenant in

Governor Pritzker and Mayor Lightfoot Announce Plans For 3,000-Bed Alternate Care Setting at McCormick Place to Treat COVID-19 Patients, Including Elgin

Governor Pritzker and Mayor Lightfoot Announce Plans For 3,000-Bed Alternate Care Setting at McCormick Place to Treat COVID-19 Patients Additional Capacity Created to Prepare for Expected Surge in Hospitalizations of COVID-19 PatientsChicago – Governor JB Pritzker, Mayor Lori E. Lightfoot, the US Army Corps of Engineers and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) today announced plans to temporarily convert part of the McCormick Place Convention Center into an Alternate Care Facility (ACF) for

Old Sherman Hospital in Elgin Being Converted for Overflow Capacity

For immediate release, March 30, 2020Old Sherman Hospital in Elgin Being Converted for Overflow Capacity    Elgin, IL - Illinois Department of Public Health and Illinois Emergency Management Agency are working in conjunction with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to convert the former Sherman hospital on Slade Avenue into an overflow facility for non-acute hospital patients. Work on the conversion has begun and it is expected to last at least two weeks. The City’s sources at the State level

Beckatt Solutions Joins Additive Manufacturing Community in Providing 3D Printed Medical Parts and PPE to Hospitals Facing Critical Shortages

Beckatt Solutions Joins Additive Manufacturing Community in Providing 3D Printed Medical Parts and PPE to Hospitals Facing Critical Shortages    Beckatt Solutions stands ready to support hospitals during the COVID-19 pandemic by offering 3D printing of medical supplies and Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) in short supply.     Elgin, IL – As hospitals and health care providers have been inundated with COVID-19 patients, they have faced significant challenges in procuring medical supplies and PPE,

Elgin Supports Temporary Daytime Shelter for People Experiencing Homelessness

Elgin Supports Temporary Daytime Shelter for People Experiencing Homelessness Watch: Mayor Kaptain and Pastor Abi discuss the newly opened temporary daytime shelter for those experiencing homelessness in Elgin. Mayor Kaptain announces partnership with New Life Covenant for temporary daytime accommodations   Elgin, IL - The City of Elgin has partnered with New Life Covenant Church to provide temporary daytime accommodations during these unprecedented times. The partnership  comes at a time of

Five Real Estate Takeaways

Five Real Estate Takeaways From Senate Approval of Coronavirus StimulusThe $2.2 Trillion Package Includes Help for All Property Sectors, But It May Not Be Enough Congress is working on legislation to address the economic fallout from the coronavirus pandemic. (Michael Judkins/Pexels) By Randyl Drummer CoStar NewsMarch 26, 2020 | 6:43 P.M. A $2 trillion legislative aid package approved by the Senate to address the financial fallout from the coronavirus pandemic provides fiscal stimulus, bailout

Managing Properties in the New Reality

anyaberkut/iStock/Getty ImagesREAL ESTATE SERVICES>PROPERTY MANAGEMENT Managing Properties in the New RealityThe current pandemic has put property managers on the first lines. Here’s what to keep in mind. Cheryl Ann Gray | Mar 26, 2020 “I can’t honestly say that anybody was thinking about pandemics, maybe two months ago at least,” says Barry Blanton, IREM senior vice president and principal at Blanton Turner. “If we look at what we thought we knew three days ago, and we look at where we are this morning,

Elgin allows for curbside and delivery alcohol sales, waives liquor license fees

Elgin allows for curbside and delivery alcohol sales, waives liquor license fees  The City of Elgin takes additional actions to assist local businesses impacted by coronavirus outbreak Elgin, IL - Mayor Kaptain signed a proclamation and order on March 26 at 6:00 p.m. providing liquor license renewal extensions and fee relief to certain license holders and approving temporary curbside pickup and delivery of alcohol sales. These measures are additional ways the City of Elgin is taking action to assist local

Northwestern Medicine Appreciates your Support

On behalf of Northwestern Medicine, we would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to the many members of our community who have expressed interest in making donations to help support our hospital staff during this crisis. We are uplifted and encouraged by your kind actions.   In response to this outpouring of generosity, we have established additional guidelines and systems to ensure that our healthcare staff can directly benefit from the donations, while maintaining health and safety

Paycheck Protection Program

The CARES Act enacts a new loan program through the Small Business Act, the Paycheck Protection Program (the “Program”), to provide eligible borrowers with loans to help cover costs related to the COVID-19 emergency. Under the Program, borrowers are eligible for loan forgiveness up to the principal amount of the loan.   How do I receive forgiveness on my loan? Borrowers are eligible for loan forgiveness equal to the amount of costs incurred and paid during the 8-week period beginning on the loan

What Retailers Will Be Left Standing?

Getty ImagesRETAILWhat Retailers Will Be Left Standing After the Coronavirus Pandemic Ends?The industry shakeout that was expected to take five to 10 years is happening in a matter of weeks. Liz Wolf | Mar 25, 2020 As much of the U.S. goes on lockdown to curb the spread of COVID-19, many in the retail and restaurant sectors are taking a major blow. One-third of Americans are currently under a shelter-in-place order. Shopping, except for groceries and necessities (deemed “essential services”), has pretty

United Center Enlisted as Logistics Hub

Chicago Arena First to Be Enlisted to Become Coronavirus Logistics HubHome of Blackhawks, Bulls Has More Than 1 Million Square Feet to Work With The massive campus of the United Center arena and offices will be turned into a logistics hub for needs tied to COVID-19. (CoStar) By Jennifer Waters CoStar NewsMarch 25, 2020 | 4:26 P.M. The United Center, home to the Chicago Blackhawks and Bulls, is set to play a key role in the fight to curtail the spread of the coronavirus

Unemployment Rate Dropped to New Historic Low in February, While State Sees Significant Increase in Unemployment Claims in March

Unemployment Rate Dropped to New Historic Low in February, While State Sees Significant Increase in Unemployment Claims in March SPRINGFIELD – While the Illinois Department of Employment Security (IDES) announced today that the unemployment rate fell -0.1 percentage point to 3.4 percent, a new record low, the state is responding to a surge of unemployment claims in March due to the impacts of COVID-19. To this point, March unemployment claims total 133,763 compared to 27,493 over the same period in

IDES Taking Steps to Address Unprecedented Volume of Unemployment Claims

IDES Taking Steps to Address Unprecedented Volume of Unemployment Claims Improved Processes to Help Streamline Increased Need for Benefits SPRINGFIELD – Today, Governor Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Employment Security (IDES) announced they are taking additional steps to address the unprecedented volume of unemployment benefit claims the department has fielded as a result of COVID-19.  To date, the department has taken several steps to improve the unemployment benefit claims process via the

Commercial Real Estate and Covid-19

COVID-19 and Commercial Real Estate: What We Know, What We Don’tPosted on March 23, 2020 by Jeff Shaw in Features, Hospitality, Industrial, Multifamily, Office, Restaurant, Retail The coronavirus pandemic (COVID-19) has not only impacted the physical health of humans around the world, but the health of the U.S. economy as well. The stock market has fallen about 33 percent from its February highs, and unemployment is estimated to rise to between 20 percent and 30 percent — though no one knows the true

Three New Business Emergency Small Business Grant/Loan Programs

Emergency Small Business Grants and Loans Assistance Under the leadership of Governor JB Pritzker, DCEO is working with partners to launch emergency assistance programs for Illinois small businesses.  These initiatives include: Hospitality Emergency Grant Program To help hospitality businesses make ends meet in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, DCEO is launching the Hospitality Emergency Grant Program with $14 million drawn from funds originally budgeted for job training, tourism promotion, and other

Elgin Earth Month events cancelled, postponed or offered virtually

The Elgin Earth Month Planning Committee cancelled or postponed many events and look at opportunities to celebrate online. Elgin, IL - Due to the continuing novel coronavirus pandemic, the Elgin Earth Month Planning Committee has postponed or cancelled its events planned for April. This includes the cancellation of the signature Elgin Green Expo event that was scheduled for April 4 at the Edward Schock Centre of Elgin. Organizers are looking at opportunities to mark the occasion

Hospitality Emergency Grant Program in Spanish

Bajo el liderazgo del Gobernador JB Pritzker, DCEO está trabajando con socios, incluyendo a Accion para lanzar programas de asistencia de emergencia para pequeños comercios de Illinois.    Para ayudar a negocios en la industria hospitalaria en medio de la pandemia COVID-19, DCEO está lanzando el Programa de Ayuda económica de emergencia a la Industria Hospitalaria con $14 millones extraídos de fondos originalmente presupuestados para entrenamiento laboral, promoción turística y otros fines. Los fondos

SBA Webinars

Online training available for small businesses impacted by coronavirus All Illinois small businesses can now apply for low-interest disaster loans to help offset the economic impact of the coronavirus pandemic. The Illinois District Office will host free webinars as long as there is demand covering:EligibilityUse of proceedsTermsFiling requirementsAdditional small business resources Choose the date and time most convenient for you. Click the link to register now. Tuesday, March 24,  11 a.m.

Illinois Small Business COVID-19 Relief Program

Small Business COVID-19 Relief ProgramHome / Invest in Illinois / Small Business COVID-19 Relief Program  Business Invest - Illinois Small Business COVID-19 Relief Program (“Program”). The program is an impact investment loan program under which the State Treasurer would make up to $250 million in deposits available to financial institutions throughout the state, at near-zero rates, to assist Illinois small business and non-profits negatively affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.  The purpose of this funding

Duluth Trading Stores to Temporarily Close

All Duluth Trading Stores to Temporarily ClosePosted on March 24, 2020 by Kristin Hiller in Midwest, Retail, Wisconsin There are more than 60 locations of Duluth Trading Co. nationwide. MOUNT HOREB, WIS. — As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, Duluth Holdings Inc. has temporarily closed all of its stores nationwide. There are more than 60 locations of Duluth Trading Co. The company did not disclose a timeline for when the stores will reopen. The Wisconsin-based retailer of casual wear and workwear will

Small Business Administration Guidelines

SBA Implements Automatic Deferment on Existing SBA Disaster Loans Through End of 2020

NEWS RELEASEPRESS OFFICE   Release Date: March 23, 2020   Release Number: 20-27     Contact: Press_Office@sba.gov (202) 205-7036   www.sba.gov/newsFollow us on Twitter, Facebook, Blogs & Instagram    Carranza Implements Automatic Deferment on Existing SBA Disaster Loans Through End of 2020    WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Small Business Administration Administrator Jovita Carranza announced changes to help borrowers still paying back SBA loans from previous disasters. By making this change,

Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation Announces Several Actions to Increase the Health Care Professional Workforce During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Illinois e-News ReleaseFor Immediate Release:                                                                                                                     Contact: Chris SlabyMarch 23, 2020                                                                                                                  Christopher.Slaby@Illinois.govIllinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation Announces Several Actions to Increase the Health Care Professional Workforce During the COVID-19

Gov. Pritzker waives overweight permit fees for transportation of emergency relief supplies

Gov. Pritzker waives overweight permit fees for transportation of emergency relief supplies SPRINGFIELD – Gov. JB Pritzker has signed an emergency declaration, effective through April 12, enabling haulers to get free Illinois Department of Transportation overweight trucking permits for the movement of emergency relief supplies in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.  “It’s always important for haulers to be able to move supplies in a timely and safe manner, but it’s never been more important than right

Real Estate Specific Updates

Getty ImagesREAL ESTATE SERVICES>PROPERTY MANAGEMENTCommercial Real Estate Industry Coronavirus Resource CenterA page centralizing commercial real estate association responses, guides and resources in dealing with the ongoing coronavirus outbreak. David Bodamer | Mar 18, 2020 Many of the major North American commercial real estate industries have stepped up to deliver guidance and resources to the industry on how to handle the continuing coronavirus outbreak.Updated on March 23, 2020  Here is a

Illinois Economic Injury Declaration

The State of Illinois has received its statewide Economic Injury Declaration which means small businesses in all 102 Illinois counties may be eligible for low-interest, economic injury disaster loans up to $2M per business. Businesses can access additional information and apply for the loan online here. Eligibility requirements are determined by SBA and can be found here. DCEO is working with federal and local partners, like yourselves, to ensure assistance is available for small businesses seeking loans,

Illinois ‘stay-at-home’ order to start Saturday, go until April 7

Gov. Pritzker said Illinois’ ‘stay at home’ order is set to begin this weekend and go until April as the number of COVID-19 cases in the state continue to rise. SEE ORDER The order is set to start at 5 p.m. Saturday and go until April 7. Like other states, the order will mean residents can still go to the grocery stores, put gas in their cars, take walks outside and make pharmacy runs. All local roads, including the interstate highways and tollways, will remain open to traffic, as well. Delivery works

Illinois EPA Temporarily Closes All Vehicle Emissions Testing Stations

Illinois EPA Temporarily Closes All Vehicle Emissions Testing Stations Closure Dates Align with Governor Pritzker’s Executive Order SPRINGFIELD – Illinois EPA Director John J. Kim today announced the temporary closure of all vehicle emissions testing stations in Illinois.  In the interest of safeguarding the health of all Illinoisans, including motorists that bring their vehicles in for emissions testing and the workers that perform these tests, the Illinois EPA will temporarily suspend vehicle emissions

Stay at Home Q & A

On Friday, March 20th, Governor Pritzker issued Executive Order 2020-10 requiring all Illinoisans to stay in their homes to prevent the further spread of COVID-19. The order prohibits things like visiting the homes of friends and holding gatherings of any size and closes all nonessential establishments, including most retail, recreation and entertainment businesses. It does NOT prohibit essential activities like going to the grocery store, receiving medical care, or taking your pet for a walk. For more

Simon Property Group Temporarily Shuts its Malls

Coronavirus Forces Simon to Temporarily Halt Operations at All US MallsREIT Recently Loaded Up Revolving Credit Line; 175 Properties to Go Dark Until March 29 Coronavirus is impacting every corner of the country while people stay put in their homes. (Getty Images) By Jennifer Waters CoStar NewsMarch 18, 2020 | 4:25 P.M. Simon Property Group, the nation’s largest shopping center and mall landlord, said it will temporarily shut the lights off on all 175 properties it operates in the Unites States, a

IDES Temporarily Closed-Instructions

IDES Offices Closed Until Further Notice ​3/17/20 - The health and safety of our customers and staff are of highest importance.In order to protect everyone through social distancing, IDES offices are closed to the public until further notice. You may access IDES services using the following methods:To file an Unemployment Insurance claim, click here.If you have questions about Unemployment Insurance, please call our Customer Service Center at 800-244-5631 or 866-488-4016 TTY To certify for Unemployment

AT&T Offers Added Relief for Customers

AT&T is planning on being here to help you stay connected throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. We recognize that staying in touch with your family, friends, school and work has never been more important. Below are a few ways we’re helping consumers, small businesses, and enterprises across the country. Consistent with FCC Chairman Pai’s “Keep Americans Connected Pledge” announced today and concerns raised by members of Congress, which we share, AT&T is proud to support our customers by pledging that, for

Nordstrom & Macy's Close Temporarily

Nordstrom, Macy’s, Neiman Marcus, Saks to Temporarily Close All Stores to Combat CoronavirusRetailers Plan to Keep Online Sites Open, Continue to Pay Employees Nordstrom stores will stay empty for two weeks as part of the retailer's efforts to help contain the coronavirus outbreak. (Getty Images) By Jennifer Waters CoStar NewsMarch 17, 2020 | 03:09 P.M. Several U.S. department store chains – Nordstrom, Macy's, Neiman Marcus and Saks Fifth Avenue – have temporarily closed their doors as the nation

IRS Establishes Coroanvirus Website

IRS Establishes Specialized Coronavirus Info Site David H. Lenok | Mar 17, 2020 The site is meant to act as a consolidated hub of information regarding the coronavirus’ effect on taxpayers. The Internal Revenue Service recently created a website to act as a consolidated hub of information regarding the coronavirus’ effect on taxpayers. With April 15 rapidly approaching, tax uncertainty is yet another worry to pile on the mountain of concerns with which most Americans are currently dealing. The new

Gov. Pritzker Launches Coronavirus.illinois.gov with Resources for Illinois Residents, Small Businesses

Gov. Pritzker Launches Coronavirus.illinois.gov with Resources for Illinois Residents, Small Businesses Murphysboro, Ill. — Following an earlier stop at the St. Clair County Health Department in Belleville this morning, Governor JB Pritzker held his administration’s daily COVID-19 press briefing in Jackson County today and announced the launch of a new website detailing the state’s evolving response to COVID-19 and resources available to Illinois residents during this challenging time.   “My

Extension of Tax Payment Deadline Announced

Extension of Tax Payment Deadline Announced Breaking News: In an afternoon press conference yesterday, Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin announced a plan to extend the April 15 tax payment deadline for individuals and many businesses by 90 days. You are still required to file your tax returns by April 15th unless you decided to extend your return. Official details have not been released; however, based on the announcement it seems many taxpayers will benefit from the extension. We expect more important

EEOC GUIDANCE on the Impact of the ADA on COVID-19 Preventative Measures

As you know by now, COVID-19 is changing things on a daily, if not hourly or minute by minute basis. In reviewing this advice, you must understand that guidance will change as the COVID-19 pandemic evolves. As such, employers MUST continue to get up to date information from public health authorities on maintaining workplace safety.   The CDC, EEOC and World Health Organization (WHO) each have their own guidance on addressing the workplace and employees under a pandemic situation:CDC Interim Guidance for

SBA Disaster Assistance in Response to the Coronavirus

The U.S. Small Business Administration is offering designated states and territories lowinterest federal disaster loans for working capital to small businesses suffering substantial economic injury as a result of the Coronavirus (COVID-19). Upon a request received from a state’s or territory’s Governor, SBA will issue under its own authority, as provided by the Coronavirus Preparedness and Response Supplemental Appropriations Act that was recently signed by the President, an Economic Injury Disaster Loan

Free Webinar: Release of the 2020 Education and Training Services Resource Guide for Your Business

The 2020 U.S. Commercial Service Education and Training Services Resource Guide is ready so learn more at a free webinar March 25 at 11 a.m. It includes comparable and individual market assessments of countries listed as best prospects for U.S. training and educational services in 58+ markets.   Learn about the contents of the book: market trends, current demand, market entry, resources and U.S. Commercial Service Education contacts in each market.  All registrants will receive a link to an electronic copy

Upcoming Illinois Trade Events

Illinois Trade Events and Opportunities   Below is a list of upcoming international trade events, which our office is organizing or co-sponsoring/supporting. We hope that you will be able to join us for at least one of them.   Regards,Haley MilanInternational Trade SpecialistU.S. Commercial Service ChicagoHaley.Milan@trade.gov     Export NewsWebinarsTrade MissionsOther Opportunities and EventsExport NewsWhat are trustworthy sources for international market research?

Here's the Updated Criteria for Businesses Requesting COVID-19 Disaster Loans

(Illinois is in Process of Filing for this Disaster Assistance) SBA Updates Criteria on States for Requesting Disaster Assistance Loans for Small Businesses Impacted by Coronavirus (COVID-19) WASHINGTON – Today, as part of the Trump Administration’s aggressive, whole-of-government efforts to combat the Coronavirus outbreak (COVID-19) and minimize economic disruption to the nation’s 30 million small businesses, U.S. Small Business Administration Administrator Jovita Carranza issued revised criteria for

Hanover Township issues disaster proclamation in response to novel coronavirus

Hanover Township issues disaster proclamation in response to novel coronavirus Hanover Township Supervisor Brian McGuire issued a local disaster proclamation today in accordance with state law to enhance the Township’s response and readiness to the novel coronavirus (COVID-19). The proclamation allows the Township to activate its Emergency Operations Plan, and authorizes the furnishing of aid and assistance to protect the health and safety of residents, facilities, and provide support to those

IDOT Receives Approval to Increase Truck Weights for the Transportation of Emergency Relief and Supplies

This morning, Governor JB Pritzker and Secretary of Transportation Omer Osman ordered the Illinois Department of Transportation to increase truck weights on Illinois roads to 88,000 pounds (currently 80,000 pounds) for a 5-axle vehicle or 10 percent above the legal load for vehicles with fewer axles. Additionally, the Governor waived all overweight fees for the transportation of emergency relief and supplies. The increased weight limits and fee waivers expire on April 12, 2020. Executive order here and IDOT

Food Distribution During School Shutdown: Free Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Food Distribution During School Shutdown: Free Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner   While schools are closed, School District U-46 will be providing FREE MEALS TO ALL CHILDREN 18 AND UNDER packaged to take home. A breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snack will be ready to take and go. No paperwork is required for meals - just visit the pick-up location most convenient for your family! Stop by between 10 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. for your pre-packaged meals and a snack on these dates: Tuesday, March 17 Wednesday, March

City of Elgin Taking Action to Slow Spread of Coronavirus/COVI

City of Elgin Changing How It Will Be Conducting Business in Response to CoronavirusElgin, IL - The City of Elgin is implementing changes to its business operations to protect public health and slow the spread of coronavirus. The City continues monitoring the evolving coronavirus situation and working closely with health agencies for information and guidance. "The safety and well being of Elgin’s residents remains the priority of all City of Elgin elected officials and staff," said Mayor David Kaptain.

SBA Disaster Assistance for Businesses

SBA Disaster Assistance in Response to the Coronavirus •   The U.S. Small Business Administration is offering designated states and territories  low-interest federal disaster loans for working capital to small businesses suffering substantial  economic injury as a result of the Coronavirus (COVID-19). Upon a request received from a state’s  or territory’s Governor, SBA will issue under its own authority, as provided by the Coronavirus  Preparedness and Response Supplemental Appropriations Act that

Hospitality Industry Recovery

History Shows It Can Take a While for Rates to Rebound By Jan Freitag STRMarch 12, 2020 | 7:18 A.M. A broad cross-section of hotel owners and operators have recently cautioned investors to disregard earlier corporate projections for revenue and profits, given the uncertainty over the loss of business they might endure as travelers and business groups cancel plans in the face of a global coronavirus outbreak. History shows such sudden drops in travel can quickly affect the average daily rates hotels

Pritzker Administration to Provide Unemployment Benefits to Workers Impacted by Coronavirus

Pritzker Administration to Provide Unemployment Benefits to Workers Impacted by Coronavirus Benefits to cover workers without access to paid sick leave impacted by COVID-19 SPRINGFIELD – Governor Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Employment Security (IDES) announced they are taking additional steps to support workers and families impacted by COVID-19. The administration will file emergency rules this week to clarify that individuals unemployed due to COVID-19 can generally qualify for unemployment

SBA To Provide Small Businesses Impacted by Coronavirus (COVID-19) Up to $2 Million in Disaster Assistance Loans

NEWS RELEASE PRESS OFFICE Release Date: March 12, 2020  Release Number: 20-24   Contact: Jennifer.Kelly@sba.gov (202)205-7036www.sba.gov/newsFollow us on Twitter, Facebook, Blogs & Instagram     SBA To Provide Small Businesses Impacted byCoronavirus (COVID-19) Up to $2 Million inDisaster Assistance LoansWASHINGTON – SBA Administrator Jovita Carranza issued the following statement today in response to the President’s address to the

Innovative New Pilot to Connect SNAP Recipients to Jobs

IDHS Launches Innovative New Pilot to Connect SNAP Recipients to Jobs Tuesday, March 10, 2020 - Human Services, Department of CHICAGO, IL — Today, the Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) announced an innovative partnership with private philanthropy and the National Able Network that will expand the number of organizations who can provide work and training resources for SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) recipients in Illinois. The SNAP to Success program is part of IDHS' SNAP

Coronavirus Resources and Guidelines for Business

Resources & Guidelines for Business The U.S. Chamber is working closely with the White House, U.S. government agencies, and foreign government officials to inform and equip businesses with the most important and up-to-date information to ensure we are all adequately prepared to protect Americans at home and abroad. All employers should be ready to implement strategies to protect their workforce from the Coronavirus while ensuring continuity of operations. Download these guides created by the U.S. Chamber

Even a Strong Jobs Report Doesn't Seem to Matter Much Now

Even a Strong Jobs Report Doesn't Seem to Matter Much Now "A quick term check of the Fed's Beige Book out today: it mentions the coronavirus 48 times and 9 times says COVID-19. Together that's more times than the term labor (51 times) or employment (55) and poor inflation only appears 12 times. It's a different world out here folks." - Tara Sinclair, associate professor at George Washington University We promise that we won’t mention the virus as many times as the Beige Book. We’ll try, at least. But

China Sees Unprecedented Manufacturing Contraction

China's factories provide key inputs to other manufacturers worldwide, so when China exports slow, or even stop, delivery times rise and bottlenecks ensue. This hits U.S. manufacturers (particularly in consumer goods and electronics) and construction the most.This supply side hit is nearly impossible for policymakers to adjust for. The options are limited to targeted fiscal policy, such as lowering tariff rates, but the Trump administration has shown little interest in that. The bright side is that a supply

Fisher Nuts is celebrating its 100th brand anniversary, according to manufacturer John B. Sanfilippo & Son.

ELGIN -- Fisher Nuts is celebrating its 100th brand anniversary, according to manufacturer John B. Sanfilippo & Son. The iconic nut brand started in 1920 when Sam Fisher, an immigrant from Russia, first developed a line of salted in-shell peanuts in St. Paul, Minnesota. Stationed in France during World War I, Fisher became fascinated by the local French farmers salting in-shell peanuts in their farmyards, which inspired him to experiment after the war. The Fisher nut business launched with his success, and

Local Food Procurement

Local Food Procurement The Kane County Juvenile Justice Center is committing to serve fresher, more locally grown foods to the children under its care        Each year the Juvenile Justice Center cafeteria serves meals to between 800 and 900 youth. Beginning this year, the JJC will be offering incentives to vendors who commit to sourcing a minimum percentage of preferred unprocessed food items originating from farms in Kane County and neighboring regions.The new procurement policy was derived from

Illinois Legislative Update

March 6, 2020  This Week in Illinois     The House and Senate will both be out-of-session next week for the Illinois Primary Election. Both Chambers will resume on Wednesday, March 18th.   The Illinois Chamber's Chamber Day will also be taking place on March 18th. The Chamber hopes to see many of you there.   Legislative Update   The House and Senate were both in session this week, Tuesday through Thursday.   Senate   SB2457 has been placed on the Senate Calendar for third reading. This bill

2020 Economic Development Legislative Update

The Illinois Economic Development Association  sifts through the thousands of introduced bills and attempts to determine which might actually be moving in a given year.  There are a number of factors that come into consideration, but one good indicator is stated intent by leadership.  In this regard we can look to the Governor's recent calls to action: Ethics Reform (conflict disclosures, more transparency, stopping the legislator-turned-lobbyist revolving door);Desired changes for the Property Tax

Last-Mile Industrial Opportunites Expanding to Smaller Markets

JOHANNES EISELE/AFP Getty ImagesINDUSTRIALLast-Mile Industrial Investment Opportunities Expanding to Smaller MarketsAs it becomes harder to find last-mile properties in core markets, investors start looking at smaller cities. Due to extremely tight vacancies, last-mile facilities in all urban markets with a sizable population are generating much higher rents than traditional distribution centers in more suburban areas, according to James Breeze, global head of industrial and logistics research with real

U-46 & Real Estate Professionals

Real Estate Professionals Invited to Learn More About U-46Annual breakfast presentation scheduled for March 10   ELGIN - Real estate agents, brokers, trainers, property managers, and appraisers are invited to a Real Estate Professionals Breakfast to learn more about the state’s second largest school district before the busy spring home buying season.  The breakfast is being co-hosted by School District U-46 and the Citizens' Advisory Council’s Family and Community Engagement Committee. It will be held

Illinois Sustainable Technology Center News

     MARCH 2020 NEWS          Maggie Oudsema, a research assistant at the Robert B. Annis Water Resources Institute (AWRI), Grand Valley State University and John Scott, a research chemist at ISTC, lower microplastic samples into Muskegon Lake. (Photo courtesy John Scott)     Microplastics may increase risk of PFAS entering Lake Michigan's food web  by Irene Miles, Illinois-Indiana Sea GrantThey are ever-present,

Judson University’s 2020 World Leaders Forum to feature retired Gen. David Petraeus

Petraeus to share insights from 37-year military career this October in Schaumburg   Judson University has announced that foreign policy expert and retired Gen. David Petraeus will keynote the ninth World Leaders Forum on Oct. 20 in Schaumburg. Petraeus served 37 years in the U.S. military, including as commander of U.S. forces in Iraq and Afghanistan, before being appointed by then-President Barack Obama as the director of the Central Intelligence Agency in 2011. In civilian life, Petraeus now serves as

Abrading Methods celebrates successful ISO audit

Abrading Methods, Inc. recently completed an ISO audit and celebrated their Management System being deemed compliant with the requirements of ISO 13485:2016.  This achievement recognizes Abrading's ability to meet the requirements of medical device manufacturing and complements their existing ISO 9001:2015 certification.  In addition, it demonstrates the company's ongoing commitment to be the premier supplier of precision surface finishing services. These certifications provide customers with confidence

Harmonized Tariff Schedule Seminar

HTS Classification Seminar Spring 2020 by Rahul Goyal | Feb 26, 2020 | Training |HTS Classification Seminar Spring 2020 The Harmonized Systems Process comprises about 5,000 commodity groups arranged in a legal and logical structure and is supported by well-defined rules to achieve uniform classification. This system is used by more than 200 countries and economies as a basis for their Customs tariffs and for the collection of international trade statistics. This workshop is best suited for people involved

U.S. becomes India's largest Trading Partner

The US becomes India’s top trading partner, surpasses China. by Rahul Goyal | Feb 24, 2020 | International News, International Trade | The US has surpassed China and become India’s top trading partner showing greater economic ties between the two countries. According to the commerce ministry, in 2018-19, the bilateral trade between both countries stood at USD 87.95 billion. The data shows that between India and China the bilateral trade was USD 87.07 billion. India has a trade surplus of $16.85 billion

Illinois Legislative Update

March 3, 2020  Illinois Chamber Highlights from SpringfieldRail Report  SENATE   SB3429 was assigned to the Senate Revenue Committee. This bill provides that the State earned income tax credit shall be: (i) 19% of the federal tax credit for each taxable year beginning on or after January 1, 2022 and beginning before January 1, 2023; and (ii) 20% of the federal credit for each taxable year beginning on or after January 1, 2023.   SB3591 was assigned to the Senate Judiciary Committee. This bill deletes

Coronavirus Toolkit for Employers

As the Coronavirus situation continues to evolve, it is important for all employers to monitor the outbreak and implement strategies to protect their workforce while ensuring continuity of operations.  To help educate employers and employees on how they can prepare for and address the impacts of the virus, here is a toolkit from the U.S. Chamber of resources that you might use and share with your employees.  Coronavirus Toolkit:  Guidance For Employers - Click here to download guidance for employers to

Hoffer Plastics Announces New Status as MedAccred Certified Injection Molder

Hoffer Plastics Announces New Status as MedAccred Certified Injection Molder SOUTH ELGIN, IL — Hoffer Plastics announced today that the company has received the MedAccred certification, a medical device industry-managed supply-chain oversight program of the Performance Review Institute. This prestigious designation, which identifies and verifies compliance to critical manufacturing process requirements, puts Hoffer in a trusted group of injection molders that have been endorsed to serve the medical

Interim Guide for Businesses and Employers Regarding Coronavirous from the CDC

Interim Guidance for Businesses and Employers to Plan and Respond to Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19), February 2020This interim guidance is based on what is currently known about the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) will update this interim guidance as needed and as additional information becomes available.https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/specific-groups/guidance-business-response.html CDC is working across the Department of Health and

Rieke Office Interiors Certified By the Women’s Business Enterprise National Council

[Elgin, IL] - 2/24/20 - Rieke Office Interiors, a business specializing in office interior design, custom furniture manufacturing, and turnkey office planning services, is proud to announce national certification as a Women’s Business Enterprise by the Women’s Business Development Center - Midwest, a regional certifying partner of the Women’s Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC).  “I am passionate about mentoring and inspiring others. The WBENC is an opportunity to network with and help business

Can we help your business with exporting?

Illinois Trade Events and Opportunities   Below is a list of upcoming international trade events, which our office is organizing or co-sponsoring/supporting. We hope that you will be able to join us for at least one of them.   Regards,Haley MilanInternational Trade SpecialistU.S. Commercial Service ChicagoHaley.Milan@trade.gov     Export NewsLocal EventsWebinarsTrade MissionsOther Opportunities and EventsExport NewsChicago Regional Growth Corporation Offers ExporTech™ to Help

EAC's Business Review Newsletter for March 2020

 EAC's Business Review Newsletter for February 2020  

EARTH DAY - Electronics & More Recycling Event

SERVPRO Of Elgin/Northwest Kane County will be sponsoring along with Elgin Recycling, an Elgctronics & More Recycling Event Saturday, April 25th 9:00AM - 1:00PM 955 Grace Street, Elgin ILRecycle the present and save the future! Come celebrate Earth Day with SERVPRO of Elgin and Elgin Recycling by dropping off your unwanted recyclable items: Electronics Papers PlasticsCountry Donuts & Mobile CoCo's Tacoswill be on-site serving up delicious treats for all donors! Call (847) 697-8500 for Questions

EAC's Business Review Newsletter for February 2020

 EAC's Business Review Newsletter for February 2020

What's in Store for the Local Economy in 2020?

    The U.S. economy is in its 126th month of expansion that dates to July 2009, and Elgin businesses have been riding the wave. The question everyone has been asking themselves is how long can the longest expansion in U.S. history continue? Will the economy contract, continue expanding, fall or flatten is anyone’s guess? Here are a few quotes from Elgin’s business leaders on what 2020 has in store:     “Ziegler’s Ace customers continue to invest in new Weber and Traeger grills, Ego mowers and snowblowers,

EAC'S Business Review Newsletter for January 2020

Welcome New Chamber Members!

Welcome to these new Chamber members in January!   Culver's of Elgin Ross Thomas 1175 N. McLean Boulevard Elgin IL 60123 OPENING SOON!!www.culvers.com Food & Beverages/Restaurants   H.B. Fuller Lesandro Gonzalez 1575 Executive Drive Elgin IL 60123 (847) 841-7002www.hbfuller.com Industrial/Adhesive – Manufacturer   Innerspire, Inc Nate Lindquist 164 Division Street, Suite 406 Elgin IL 60120 (904) 385-9017www.TheMinimalistCEO.com Business Services/Consulting   Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers,

Darwin Realty Arranges Sale of 90,000 SF Industrial Building in Elgin, Illinois

Darwin Realty has arranged the sale of a 90,000-square-foot industrial building located at 501 Davis Road in Elgin. Consideration for the sale was in excess of $5 million. The property features seven loading docks, three drive-in doors, 5,000 square feet of office space and a clear height of 24 feet. Noel Liston of Darwin brokered the transaction. Chicago Logistic Service owned and occupied the building. Navis Industries, which provides plastic packaging films, purchased the building and plans to relocate

The Elgin Symphony Orchestra Kicks Off its 70th Anniversary Season with a Performance At The Harris Theater for Music & Dance in Chicago

The Elgin Symphony Orchestra Kicks Off its 70th Anniversary Season with a Performance At The Harris Theater for Music & Dance in Chicago  (Elgin, IL) The Elgin Symphony Orchestra’s (ESO) 70th Anniversary Season Classic Series will begin on Friday, September 13th at the Harris Theater for Music and Dance in Chicago followed by two performances at the Hemmens Cultural Center in Elgin. Led by Music Director, Andrew Hilary Grams, the Classic Series features traditional musical masterpieces by composers such as

Conor Commercial expands in Elgin with two new buildings

Conor Commercial Real Estate recently held a grand opening ceremony for Northwest Pointe III, 2801 Galvin Drive in Elgin. The two new, speculative industrial buildings will be ready for occupancy by the end of the year and together measure over 349,000 square feet. The two new buildings sit on 20.54 acres, have a clear height of 32 feet, 20-28 truck docks per building, over 400 parking spaces and column spacing of 50 feet by 52 feet allowing for vast open areas inside the building.Read More

Welcome to our new Elgin Area Chamber members!

Welcome to our new Chamber members in July! Calpine Energy Solutions Kyle Warford 1901 Esplande Drive, Suite 660 Downers Grove IL 60515  (630) 797-0736 www.calpinesolutions.com Utilities & Service Providers/Electric Service El Taco Alegre Mexican Grill Cristina Leon 154 E Chicago Street  Elgin IL 60120  (224) 434-7431 www.facebook.com/El-Taco-Alegre-Mexican-Grill-357267711666276 Food & Beverages/Restaurants HFRI, LLC Carly Guerra 2500 Westfield Drive, Suite 2-300 Elgin IL 60124  (847)

EAC's Business Review Newsletter for July 2019

This is the monthly newsletter of the Elgin Area Chamber for July, 2019 

EAC's Business Review Newsletter for May 2019

Here is the May monthly newsletter from the Elgin Area Chamber.

Happy Anniversary to our Elgin Area Chamber members

Thank you to these Elgin Area Chamber members who are celebrating an anniversary with our organization:  Celebrating 60 - 69 YearsCity of ElginElgin AcademyGolden Corridor Family YMCALaird Funeral HomeLundstrom Insurance Agency, Inc Celebrating 30 - 39 YearsBurnidge Properties, Ltd.Daily Herald Media GroupSenior Services AssociatesShales McNutt ConstructionThe Learning Tree Child Care CenterThe Literacy Connection Celebrating 20 - 29 YearsAmerican NTN Bearing Manufacturing Corp.Rotary Club of Elgin

Welcome to our new Elgin Area Chamber members

Welcome to our new Elgin Area Chamber Members in May: Allstate Insurance - Chavez Insurance Group Inc Jose Chavez 48 S McLean Boulevard  South Elgin IL 60177  (630) 908-5200 www.agents.allstate.com/jose-chavez-south-elgin-il Financial & Insurance Services/Insurance & Investments B & C Enterprises Inc Erik Bauer 2482 Technology Drive  Elgin IL 60124  (847) 930-5859 www.bcentinc.com Business Services/General Contractors Caffé Mariani - Java and Gelato Randy & Lisa Mariani 3145 West, Highway

Welcome to our New Members in April

Conor Commercial Real Estate 9500 W Bryn Mawr Suite 200 Rosemont IL 60018 (847) 692-8848 www.conorcommercial.com Real Estate/Real Estate Developers First American Bank 632 Randall Road South Elgin IL 60177 (847) 403-8185 www.firstambank.com Financial & Insurance Services/Banks   Fruitful Yield 360 Randall Road South Elgin IL 60177 (847) 888-0100 www.fruitfulyield.com Natural Products/Shopping & E-Commerce   FZ Sonick Inc 1730 Todd Farm Drive Elgin IL 60123 (636)

Happy Chamber Member Anniversary to our Members!

Thank you to these Chamber members who are celebrating an anniversary with us! Celebrating 60 - 69 Years City of Elgin Elgin Academy Golden Corridor Family YMCA Laird Funeral Home Lundstrom Insurance Agency, Inc Celebrating 30 - 39 Years Burnidge Properties, Ltd. Daily Herald Media Group Senior Services Associates Shales McNutt Construction The Learning Tree Child Care Center The Literacy Connection Celebrating 20 - 29 Years American NTN Bearing Manufacturing Corp. Rotary Club of Elgin

EAC's Business Connection Newsletter for April 2019

Happy Chamber Member Anniversary to our Members!

Thank you to these Chamber members who are celebrating an anniversary with us! Celebrating more than 60 yearsElgin Community CollegeMueller & Co LLP Celebrating 30 - 39 yearsBrittain’s Express Oil & Lube Inc. Celebrating 30 - 39 yearsCelebrating 20 to 29 yearsFASTSIGNSLauderdale Electric, Inc.PR Strategies & CommunicationsSynergy Inc.The Salvation Army Celebrating 10 - 19 yearsBlock AdvisorsComcast BusinessElgin Youth Symphony OrchestraFountain Square on the RiverFox River Horizon      Pace Suburban

Welcome to our New Members in March

Welcome to our new members in March: BidBuyorTry P.O. Box 5176  Elgin IL 60121  (224) 407-2140 www.bidbuyortry.com Business Services/Advertising Customer Service Solutions Inc. P.O. Box 7732  Algonquin IL 60102  (847) 529-1811 www.customerservsolutions.com Business Services/Business Training Eternal Tan 344 Randall Road  South Elgin IL 60177  (847) 429-2400 Home & Family/Beauty Services In the Light Studios 454 Shannon Parkway  Elgin IL 60124  (224)