BURBANK – With support from State Senator Mike Porfirio, the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity recently announced the latest round of Back to Business grants awarded to businesses in the restaurant industry.

“The Back to Business grants have supported our local restaurants through some of the most devastating times,” said Porfirio (D-Lyons Township). “By investing in these businesses, we are helping restaurants adapt and improve so they can continue to serve our communities to the best of their capabilities.”

The Back to Business grant program provides recovery grants for small businesses throughout the state, with an emphasis on businesses in the hardest hit industries. Through the Back to Business and Business Interruption Grant programs, DCEO has provided over $535 million to more than 15,000 businesses since the start of the pandemic.

Ten area restaurants in Porfirio’s district will receive a combined total of $395,000 through this round of Back to Business grants.

“Our local restaurants help to foster and promote diversity and community pride,” said Porfirio. “Helping small businesses stay open and continue to grow post-pandemic has been vital for ensuring our community needs are being met.”

For more information about the Back to Business program, visit DCEO’s website.