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COVID-19 Business Resources

Which businesses are “Essential?”

US Small Business Administration

The SBA has a broad range of programs that can help small businesses through these challenging times including business advisory and lending services.  Call or email the Illinois District Office (312-353-4528, illinois.do@sba.gov) or go to www.sba.gov/il for more information. Press Release from SBA regarding loans for Illinois small businesses.

In addition, SBA has created a webpage for COVID-19 related resources, including:

Families First Coronavirus Response Act

U.S. Chamber of Commerce Coronavirus Response Toolkit

The U.S. Chamber has compiled CDC's coronavirus recommendations for businesses and workers across the country.  The continue to encourage American businesses to follow data-based guidance from the CDC and state and local officials.  CLICK HERE to find sharable graphics based on the CDC's latest guidance for businesses and employees.

U.S. Department of Labor Resources

The U.S. Department of Labor has resources to help workers and employers prepare for the COVID-19 virus.  Resources include:

  • Workplace Safety (OSHA Guidance)
  • Wages, Hours and Leave (Fair Labor Standards Act, Family and Medical Leave Act)
  • Unemployment Insurance Flexibilities
  • Injured Federal Works Compensation Act, and more.

Illinois Department of Employment Security Resources

Unemployment benefits may be available to some individuals whose unemployment is attributed to COVID-19. IDES recently adopted emergency rules to try to make the unemployment insurance system as responsive to the current situation as possible.