Lorain Times

Lorain County issued the following announcement on Sept. 30. 

The Lorain County Board of Commissioners announced small business relief grants of up to $5,000 will be made available to Lorain County businesses that have not previously received assistance. An initial funding of $500,000 will be used to capitalize the program.

“Additional CARES Act funding to the County and hearing the needs of our smallest businesses not being able to access many of the assistance programs that were made available, the Board sees this program as a much needed investment in our communities.” stated Board President Lori Kokoski.

Lorain County businesses that have gross revenues of $1 million or less, were in business before March 1, 2020, have 15 or less employees and operate at a business or storefront location are eligible to apply. While the program is designed to assist businesses that have not received other direct financial assistance from the Federal, State or local governments, applications will be accepted and reviewed from those businesses that are otherwise eligible and assistance received was less than $5,000. 

Commissioner Sharon Sweda explained the program as creating flexibility for the use of funds. “The businesses assisted will have the ability to identify how the funds received are to be used to assist them in continuing to work through this difficult time, be it paying the rent or mortgage of the business location; reimbursing itself for investments made in creating a safer environment for employees and customers; development of an online presence to allow for curbside and delivery of items, utility payments and/or business loan payments being examples.”

The intent of the program is to assist small local businesses that have not been able to access PPP funding or other assistance and have been impacted by the COVID 19 pandemic orders. 

Commissioner Matt Lundy described the need for the program. “National data and local surveys indicate that our smallest businesses, our businesses headed by women and minorities are at highest risk for disruption and closure from impacts brought about by COVID 19. These funds are being made available to help mitigate the impacts in our County.” 

Businesses that are ineligible for assistance are: home-based businesses, and the following sectors: (i) gas stations; (ii) automotive parts or repair; (iii) smoke / vape shops; (iv) adult orientated business, internet café or gambling parlor; (v) professional services business (law or accounting firm; realty); (vi) any business that is a sole-proprietorship without any employees; (restaurants with closed dining rooms are eligible). National and regional chains and franchises are not eligible.

Applications will be made available on-line Friday on the County web page and will also be announced through the County Social media accounts. Applications will be accepted through Friday, October 16 with initial awards being announced Wednesday, October 21.

Economic Development Specialists will be available to assist businesses by answering questions about the program and eligibility once the applications are released.

Original source can be found here.