Pittsfield, IL – Congressman Darin LaHood (IL-18) announced that the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) approved a rural development grant award of $50,000 to assist the Western Illinois University (WIU) Foundation aid small businesses in Pike County.
“Small businesses create two out of every three jobs and supporting Main Street businesses in rural communities across west-central Illinois bolsters job opportunities and strengthens local economies,” stated Rep. LaHood. “With this investment, the Western Illinois University Foundation will be able to provide important technical assistance to rising entrepreneurs and small businesses in Pike County. I applaud President Trump and Secretary Perdue for recognizing the important work the Western Illinois University Foundation is doing and look forward to working with them to continue empowering small businesses across central and west-central Illinois.”
Background
The USDA approved a $50,000 Rural Business Development Grant for the Western Illinois University Foundation to aid at least 35 small businesses in Pike and Moultrie counties. In addition to the $50,000 grant, WIU’s Foundation will contribute $67,491 for a total of $117,491 in funding.
WIU’s Foundation will assist with business retention and expansion projects. This will include assistance with marketing, social media, training for local businesses and entrepreneurs on topics like: business planning, e-commerce, customer relations, and transition planning.
