SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Celina Villanueva advanced a measure that would give minority-owned, women-owned and veteran-owned businesses the opportunity to apply for up to $2 million in loans.

“Establishing better business incentives for our underrepresented populations, such as minorities, women, veterans and individuals with disabilities, helps create a more inclusive business ecosystem,” said Villanueva (D-Chicago). “This will greatly impact communities that have traditionally faced systemic barriers to entry and growth.”

Senate Bill 3807 will encourage more people to apply to the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity’s Minority, Veteran, Female and Disability Loan Program by increasing the maximum loan amount from $400,000 to $2 million.

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Celina Villanueva introduced a measure that would create the Office of Economic Equity and Empowerment to assist minority, women, veteran and disabled business owners through providing outreach and promotional activities. 

“The creation of the Office of Economic Equity and Empowerment offers necessary protection for minorities, women, veterans, and those with disabilities,” said Villanueva (D–Chicago). “This measure ensures these resources and opportunities will be safeguarded in the future.”

Senate Bill 3805 would create the Office of Economic Equity and Empowerment within the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity, further protecting equity initiatives. While DCEO has the Office of Minority Economic Empowerment, it is not written into law. Villanueva’s measure would preserve equity initiatives through the formal establishment of the office, and continue its current efforts supporting underserved business owners.

“It is important that we prioritize the protection of existing organizations that offer equitable access to resources and opportunities,” said Villanueva. “Planning ahead will ensure people have access to resources later.”

Senate Bill 3805 passed the Senate State Government Committee and now waits to be heard before the full Senate.

CHICAGO – Due to unwavering support from State Senator Celina Villanueva, a Chicago Blue Island transit provider was awarded more than $180,000 to offer safe, reliable and accessible transportation options.

“Public transportation is more than just a means of getting from point A to point B, it is the lifeline of communities,” said Villanueva (D-Chicago). “This funding will help connect people to opportunities and pave the way for a brighter more inclusive future.”

Through the Consolidated Vehicle Procurement Program, administered by the Illinois Department of Transportation, more than 500 paratransit vehicles valued at $57.1 million have been awarded to 113 transit providers. The vehicles will be delivered to public transportation providers as well as nonprofit organizations serving seniors and individuals with disabilities.

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Celina Villanueva expressed her support Wednesday for the commitment to maintain investments in higher education affordability, workforce development, social services and education included in Governor JB Pritzker’s proposed budget.

“The Fiscal Year 2025 proposed budget continues to keep the needs of families and students at the forefront,” said Villanueva (D-Chicago). “These funds are essential to vulnerable communities who may not be able to otherwise afford to continue their education.”

The proposed budget seeks to increase Monetary Award Program (MAP) funding by $10 million – for a total of over $700 million.

The governor’s proposal also carries forward the $400 million set aside in previous years for efforts that support job creation and business development through the Invest in Illinois closing fund initiative. It would also invest $30 million to the fast-track workforce program to provide employee screening, recruitment and job training development to employers.

“Illinois has done considerable work in prioritizing underrepresented communities throughout the state in the past,” said Villanueva. “I plan to negotiate a fair and equitable budget in the months ahead.”