COVID-19 Resources
Due to the lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic many of our downtown businesses continue to make adjustments to their regular business operations, including reduced hours due to staffing shortages, and continuing to offer curbside pickup of product for your comfort. Please continue to show your support to the small businesses, our friends and neighbors, who provide so much to our community. Visit our EXPLORE DOWNTOWN links for all the latest updates from individual businesses.
Updates:
***NEW*** 2021 BACK TO BUSINESS GRANT
Applications accepted August 18 – October 11, 2021
Click to review eligibility requirements and draft application & documentation needed for application.
Please CONTACT US with any questions!
Illinois Main Street Small Business Resources
As of August 2021, the CDC is once again recommending masks be worn, regardless of vaccination status, when indoors. Please be respectful of individual businesses’ requests as to masking when within their places of business.
As of June 11, 2021 Illinois and Whiteside County are in Phase 5 of the Restore Illinois plan, marking the full reopening of all industries and activities.
Small Business Assistance Resources:
Main Street Forward – Community & Industry guidance & best practices
US Chamber – Reopening Business Digital Resources Center
LOCAL:
IL Small Business Development Center at Sauk Valley Community College
Greater Sterling Development Corp
Sauk Valley Area Chamber of Commerce
Whiteside County Economic Development
Blackhawk Hills Regional Council
STATE:
Illinois Department of Commerce & Economic Opportunity (DCEO)
FEDERAL:
American Rescue Plan Act (Whitehouse)
American Rescue Plan Act Fact Sheet (US Treasury)
Small Business Administration (SBA) Disaster Assistance
Area Small Businesses are strongly encouraged to reach out to their LOCAL LENDER, the Small Business Development Center at Sauk Valley Community College, and/or their Accountant to discuss which assistance program(s) are best for their business’s needs.
Regional Metrics and Data – Cases & Vaccination Information
Whiteside County Emergency Management
Whiteside County Health Department Website (Facebook)
CGH Medical Center Website (Facebook)
CGH Medical Center Local COVID Information
Illinois Dept. of Public Health (IDPH)
Center for Disease Control (CDC)
State of Illinois COVID-19 Information