February 26, 2025
Local News | The Times
Local News

Ottawa small businesses can apply for second round of state grants

By Brent Bader

Blythe Flowers is one Ottawa business that has applied for state aid through the city of Ottawa and now they're accepting a second round of applicants. (The Times)

Small businesses in Ottawa now have a second chance to work with the city to receive grant money during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Mayor Dan Aussem announced the city will accept a second round of grant applications to be sent to the Illinois Department of Commerce & Economic Opportunity for review. The grant would be for potentially 60 days of working capital, up to $25,000.

Interested business owners can join a conference call with city staff at 5:30 p.m. Thursday. To join the call, dial 425-436-6394 and enter access code 444221#.

To apply, businesses must meet the following criteria:

• Demonstrate an urgent need for funds.

• Fewer than 50 employees.

• One full-time employee equivalent (other than the owner).

• Operation since Jan. 1, 2017.

• Solid commitment to retain permanent jobs.

Initial applications are due by 4:30 p.m. Wednesday, May 13. Applications and questions can be emailed to Dave Noble at dnoble@cityofottawa.org or Tami Koppen at tkoppen@cityofottawa.org.

Twelve Ottawa businesses already have submitted applications, including Adagio School of Performing Arts, A’Lure Aquarium Bar, Blythe Flowers, Caribbean Tan, The Cheese Shop ’N’ Deli, Class Automotive, Gray’s School of Dance, Monte’s Riverside Inn, Motorcycle Tour Conversions (MTC) Voyager, New Chalet Restaurant, Ottawa Bakery and Ottawa Nautilus gym.

For information, visit the DCEO website at https://www2.illinois.gov/dceo/CommunityServices/CommunityInfrastructure/Pages/DownstateSmBizStabilizaition.aspx.