Pictured from left: Cameron Ohlendorf - Senior Vice President of Finance; Gabi Knecht; Kelly Knecht; Tammy Hoffman - Chief Administrative Officer.

January 31, 2024 (Peotone, IL) – FHLBank of Chicago and First Community Bank and Trust are happy to announce the recipient of a FHLBank of Chicago Community First Accelerate Grants for Small Business ("Accelerate Grants") program. This grant program is used to assist the growth and development of small businesses in Illinois and Wisconsin, creating economic opportunity in the communities FHLBank Chicago members serve. Through the membership of First Community Bank and Trust, FHLBank Chicago offered a grant of $25,000 to an eligible small business.

After a thorough review process conducted by First Community Bank and Trust and FHLBank Chicago, Kelly Knecht, Savvy Hair Gallery & Spa, Peotone, IL was the recipient of the $25,000 grant! Congratulations to Kelly and Savvy Hair Gallery & Spa on receiving this grant. The money will allow Kelly to enhance her business and enrich the Peotone community. We look forward to seeing her success for years to come.

Grants are intended to strengthen a recipient's financial position, operational efficiency and/or human capital. Small businesses may use Accelerate Grants for the purchase or improvement of property; machinery, tools, or equipment; inventory, materials, or supplies; workforce development or training; and technology.

FHLBank Chicago holistically reviews applicants to determine which small businesses, in FHLBank Chicago's judgement, best meet the objectives of the program. FHLBank Chicago evaluated applications based on eligibility requirements, and overall FHLBank Chicago priorities. The Accelerate Grant program is an opportunity for members like First Community Bank and Trust to establish and strengthen partnerships with small business customers in its communities.

Congrats again to Kelly Knecht and Savvy Hair Gallery & Spa.

About First Community Bank and Trust
First Community Bank and Trust is a privately-owned bank. Established in 1916 First Community Bank and Trust has been serving Beecher, IL, Peotone, IL and the surrounding communities for over 108 years. Our commitment to providing the best banking products and services is matched only by our outstanding customer service. We offer traditional community banking services, including mortgage, consumer, and commercial lending, as well as state of the art electronic banking services.

Press Contact:
Steve Koehn, Senior Vice President
First Community Bank and Trust
(708) 946-2246