On August 9, 2024, Mayor Brandon Johnson announced the Request for Proposal (RFP) for the Small Business and Not-For-Profit Support Grant Program, designed to assist Chicago's economic recovery post-COVID-19. The city plans to allocate $21. 5 million to support small businesses and nonprofits grappling with the pandemic's adverse effects. Mayor Johnson highlighted that these organizations are vital to Chicago’s neighborhoods and economy, providing essential resources and services. The selected organization will manage the grant distribution to ensure that funds effectively stabilize operations and support workforce needs.

BACP Acting Commissioner Ivan Capifali expressed the city's ongoing commitment to aiding the local economy through this initiative. Interested parties must submit their proposals by September 6, 2024, and are encouraged to attend a pre-submittal conference on August 13, 2024. This program is part of Mayor Johnson’s broader Road to Recovery Plan, which utilizes funding from the American Rescue Plan Act. The initiative reflects the city's proactive approach to fostering economic resilience in the face of ongoing challenges.