ROUTE 47 BUSINESS RELIEF FUND
Short-Term Support for Businesses Impacted by Construction
The City of Woodstock, in partnership with the Community Foundation for McHenry County, has established the Route 47 Business Relief Grant Fund to provide short-term financial assistance to small businesses directly impacted by the Route 47 Expansion Project. While construction is an important investment in Woodstock's future, we recognize that nearby businesses may experience temporary challenges along the way. The Route 47 Business Relief Fund was created to help local businesses remain resilient throughout construction so they can continue serving our community for years to come. Grant applications are closed as of September 2026. However, the City will provide an additional funding cycle in the future as construction continues. Please stay tuned to this webpage for updates.
The City of Woodstock, in partnership with the Community Foundation for McHenry County, has established the Route 47 Business Relief Grant Fund to provide short-term financial assistance to small businesses directly impacted by the Route 47 Expansion Project. While construction is an important investment in Woodstock's future, we recognize that nearby businesses may experience temporary challenges along the way. The Route 47 Business Relief Fund was created to help local businesses remain resilient throughout construction so they can continue serving our community for years to come. Grant applications are closed as of September 2026. However, the City will provide an additional funding cycle in the future as construction continues. Please stay tuned to this webpage for updates.
How the Program Works
- Grant cycles will be announced during periods of active Route 47 construction
- The City of Woodstock is providing $50,000 in seed funding, released in two $25,000 tranches based on construction progress
- The Community Foundation for McHenry County securely receives and manages all donations
- Grants up to $5,000 are awarded to eligible businesses experiencing documented construction-related impacts
- Businesses may apply up to two times if impacted by both construction phases
- Applications will be administered by the Community Foundation and the City of Woodstock. City staff will review the applications for completeness and eligibility. Eligible applicants will be invited to submit a narrative portion on the Community Foundation's portal. The Community Foundation's Grant Review Committee will review the narrative portion and determine awardees. The City will issue reimbursement checks to grantees once expenses are submitted to the City.
GRANT OVERVIEW
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Program Overview
Requirements Eligible industries generally include retail, restaurants, arts/entertainment, and other customer-facing neighborhood services. Businesses must:
Applicants may choose the documentation that best demonstrates the negative impact. Supporting documentation (P&L statements, sales tax reports, POS summaries, etc.) will be required. Use of Funds Grant funds may be used for the following:
Funds may not be used for owner bonuses, political activity, or personal expenses. |
Route 47 Construction Project Impact Area
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SUPPORT THE FUND
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Help Us Spread the Word
To help share this critical resource, please consider posting our flyers in your business/organization. We understand that construction comes with a unique set of challenges and would greatly appreciate the community support during this time. Why Contribute?
All contributions are tax-deductible and administered through the Community Foundation for McHenry County. Your donation helps:
Contact Laura Cullotta at [email protected] for information on corporate sponsorships. |
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