Small businesses seek grant tips at Lisle ‘supermarket’

There was a bright spot Tuesday amid all the dire economic news of the past week.

Small business owners and representatives of nonprofit groups gathered in Lisle to learn how to improve their access to grant money and free programs during what U.S. Rep. Judy Biggert called a Federal Grant Supermarket.

Fourteen local, state and federal agencies operated booths and offered workshops to teach visitors strategies for growing their businesses. It was the third “supermarket” Biggert’s office has sponsored in the past 12 months.

Biggert told participants that investing in business is key to ensuring our country doesn’t again risk defaulting on its debt.

“We have to get over this crisis and put everything into growing the economy and creating jobs,” the Hinsdale Republican said. “And the government doesn’t do that. It’s small businesses like you, and we just have to get out of the way.”

Representatives of groups such as the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency met with both novice business owners and seasoned veterans looking for contract work, as well as nonprofit organizers seeking advice about free programs.

Adrianne Callahan, a small business specialist with the EPA, said Tuesday’s event gave agencies a chance to deal directly with people looking for help.

“It can be frustrating and intimidating to try and navigate all of these programs online,” she said.

Biggert said many of the available grants and programs already are funded as part of President Barack Obama’s stimulus package — a measure she voted against.

“In full disclosure, I voted against it because if we don’t have (the money) we shouldn’t spend it,” Biggert said. “But if the money is available, the people of the 13th District should know how to access it.”

That kind of information is valuable, said Anna Sehiefelbein. She is launching Life Made Better in Woodridge, a small business that focuses on helping other businesses with recycling strategies and sustainable practices.

Sehiefelbein said the goal Tuesday was to identify “point people” as she seeks grants.

“The benefit is that most people are willing to help you out and you find a friend in an organization,” she said.