East Central Reporter

State Rep. Brad Halbrook (R-Shelbyville) is doing all he can to help small businesses survive in the face of a sputtering economy, crippled even more by the lingering COVID-19 pandemic.

Halbrook, who recently won a third term in the 102nd District with well over 70% of the vote, has now turned much of his attention to advising local businesses and governments about Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) grant opportunities through the Business Interruption Grants (BIG) Program.

“The BIG program is an excellent opportunity for small businesses to take advantage of federal funding and help mitigate the financial burden many of us are facing during the COVID-19 pandemic,” Halbrook said. “As we come together during this trying time, I urge every small business to take advantage of this and the many other assistance programs offered by DCEO,”

Leveraging federal funding through the CARES Act, the BIG program is the largest of its kind in the country. Passed into law earlier this year by a bipartisan vote in Congress, those tabbed for funding are allowed to use proceeds for such capital expenses as payroll costs, rent, utilities and other operational costs. Round 2 of the BIG application process is now in the works.

Halbrook, meanwhile, is encouraging everyone to be willing to go the extra mile in trying to stabilize the situation in their own communities as the virus shows little sign of slowing and its impact is being felt by even more victims.

“At the same time, we must be supportive of one another,” he said. “Remember to shop local and do all you can to support the small businesses of your communities.”