The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) has introduced the Capitol Complex Construction Interruption Grant Program, providing a single award of $40,000 to support small businesses financially impacted by construction activities in the Illinois Capitol Complex area. This grant is intended to help offset operating expenses for businesses that have experienced revenue loss due to construction disruptions. Eligible applicants must be small, public-facing businesses located directly adjacent to the Capitol Complex, bounded by Monroe Street, Second Street, Edwards Street, and College Street in Springfield, Illinois.
To qualify, applicants must meet several criteria: they must have fewer than 100 employees and must have previously received a Back 2 Business NewBiz Grant from the DCEO. Additionally, applicants must demonstrate financial losses incurred during the construction period through financial statements submitted with the application. The grant does not require cost-sharing or matching funds, and indirect costs are also not permitted under this funding opportunity.
Applications must be submitted by 5:00 PM CST on November 29, 2024, through an electronic form accessible via the provided link on the DCEO website. Before submission, applicants need to be registered in the Grant Accountability and Transparency Act (GATA) Grantee Portal and maintain an active registration with SAM.gov to confirm eligibility. Documentation required for the application includes a Uniform Grant Application, Uniform Budget, Conflict of Interest Disclosure, and Mandatory Disclosures, along with program-specific forms found on the DCEO website.
The DCEO’s review process follows a merit-based evaluation conducted by a committee that scores applications based on eligibility and adherence to program guidelines. Successful applicants will receive a Notice of State Award (NOSA), which initiates the grant agreement phase, where final funding terms and conditions are set. Performance and financial reports are required quarterly, with closeout reporting due 45 days after the grant period ends. Compliance with Illinois' audit requirements is mandatory, as is participation in programmatic and fiscal monitoring.
For additional information or questions about this grant, applicants may contact the DCEO Grant Help Desk via email. All applicant interactions must adhere to the policies set out in the NOFO to ensure full compliance and consideration for the award.
