ROCKFORD, IL — Illinois State Representative Maurice West, D-Rockford and GoRockford (formerly Rockford Area Convention & Visitors Bureau) are launching the third round of state-funded “Restaurant Relief Grants” to help local eateries negatively affected by forced staff layoffs during the pandemic, causing continued high unemployment insurance rates and payments. This grant application period expands eligibility to include bars and coffee shops that serve food. Applications open Feb. 3 and will close on Feb. 28, 2025.
Since the program's inception, GoRockford’s Restaurant Relief Grant has provided $665,286.54 to 39 restaurants. Grants ranged from $80,009.71 to $165.88 based on staff layoffs, unemployment claims and financial impact to each restaurant. In the first two rounds of grant funding, 100% of restaurants meeting eligibility requirements received grant funding. GoRockford continues to administer the program, ensuring equitable and efficient distribution of state-funded relief to support the local hospitality sector.
“Restaurants, bars, and coffee shops are cornerstones of our community, offering more than food and drink—they’re places where connections are made and traditions are celebrated,” said Rep. Maurice West. “Expanding this program to include bars and coffee shops ensures we’re addressing a wider range of needs in our community and helping these small businesses sustain their vital role in our local economy.”
Eligible establishments are encouraged to apply during the designated window. Detailed information about eligibility, application requirements and submission processes can be found at www.gorockford.com/restaurant-grant.
“Supporting our local establishments remains a top priority,” said John Groh, President/CEO of GoRockford. “With this expanded eligibility, we’re committed to helping even more of local businesses that serve food, helping them thrive and continue contributing to the vibrancy of Rockford and Winnebago County.”
Key Details of the Restaurant Relief Grant Program:
Eligibility: To apply, an authorized representative of a restaurant will need to certify that:
- The restaurant’s principal place of business is located within Winnebago County, Illinois.
- The restaurant complied with the indoor dining closure mandates enacted by the State of Illinois during Q1 and Q2, of 2021 via Executive Orders 2021-01, 2021-02, 2021-03, 2021-04, 2021-05, 2021-6, 2021-9, and 2021-10.
- In complying with indoor dining closure mandates in Q1 and Q2 of 2021, the restaurant laid off staff and, as a result, has experienced higher unemployment benefit charges in Q1 and Q2 2021.
- The restaurant incurred a higher rate of state unemployment taxes in 2022, 2023 and 2024 because of the higher unemployment benefit charges in Q1and Q2, of 2021.
- The restaurant remains operational today.
Additionally, businesses must also fall under one of the following North American Industry Classification System Codes: 722511 (Full-Service Restaurants), 722513 (Limited-Service Restaurants) or 722514 (Cafeterias and Buffets). Businesses operating under 722410 (drinking places, alcoholic beverages), 312120 (Breweries) and 722515 (snack and non-alcoholic beverages bars) will also be considered if they demonstrate that they serve food prepared on site.
Review Panel: Grant recipients and the amounts awarded will be determined by GoRockford and a professional review panel. The panel will review application materials and recommended award amounts, working to ensure fairness across the board to eligible applicants. The review panel was chosen based on tax and staffing knowledge and consists of Bridget Coleman, CPA, Coleman CPA & Accounting; Jennifer Furst, President, Furst Staffing; Carrie Hagerty, Finance Director, City of Rockford; Linda Heckert, President, Northwest Bank; John J. Morrissey, President/CEO, Staff Management; and John Schuster, Retired CFO, Rosecrance Health Network.
Required application documents for first time applicants:
- W-9 for Restaurant
- 2021 Restaurant Tax Return
- IL Dept. of Employment Security form BEN-118 – Statement of Benefit Charges for Q1 and Q2, 2021
- IL Dept. of Employment Security Rate Determination letter for 2022, 2023 and 2024
- State Unemployment Tax Reports for 2022, 2023 and 2024
- Proof of payment of State Unemployment Taxes for 2022, 2023 and 2024
Required application documents for applicants who applied in Round 1 and/or 2:
- State Unemployment Tax Reports for Q3 and Q4 2024
- Proof of payment of State Unemployment Taxes for Q3 and Q4 2024
GoRockford expects to announce and distribute grant awards in mid to late March. The maximum total award a restaurant may receive from the program, as set by the State of Illinois, is $100,000.
For additional information about the Restaurant Relief Grant Program and to access the online application portal, please visit GoRockford.com/Restaurant-Grant.
About: GoRockford is responsible for promoting the Rockford region as an attractive travel destination and enhancing its public image as a dynamic place to live and work. Through the impact of travel, GoRockford strengthens the economic position of the region and provides opportunities for people in our communities. www.gorockford.com
State Representative Maurice West is serving his third term representing the 67th House District in the Rockford region. A Rockford native, Rep. West serves as Assistant Floor Whip in the 103rd General Assembly.
