CHAMPAIGN, IL (Chambana Today) – The City of Champaign and the Champaign County Economic Development Center have launched two new programs designed to help start and grow small businesses in Champaign. These new programs provide financial assistance and technical support to help launch and grow small businesses. Here are the benefits of the two programs:

  • New Business Program: Up to $10,000 reimbursement for entrepreneurs starting a new business, or for businesses less than two years old.
  • Growing Business Program: Up to $20,000 reimbursement for small businesses that are older than two years, looking to expand their operations.
Eligible businesses must be located within the Champaign city limits and meet specific criteria for each program. Applications must be submitted before October 20. Awardees will be announced in November 2024.
New Business Program applicants are encouraged to attend the Starting Your Business in Illinois workshop hosted by the Small Business Development Center (SBDC) and download SBDC’s business plan outline to learn more about the programs. For details on how to apply, visit champaignil.gov/city-incentives, or contact the City’s Planning and Development Department at 217-403-8800 or planning@champaignil.gov.