Of that total, $164,000 was awarded to 41 local businesses, and $35,000 was awarded to six non-profit agencies. The grants resulted in 316 jobs being retained that may otherwise have been lost due to the economic downturn caused by the pandemic.
In May, the City Council approved a suite of new programs totaling $1.25 million, designed to provide economic support to local businesses and non-profits facing financial hardship due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The program includes a three-phased approach, including grants for small businesses and non-profits, fee waivers for city services, and post-recovery economic efforts.
The City focused its efforts on local businesses that have been financially hurt by the reduction in sales and operations. Due to the financial impact of COVID-19, many businesses need financial assistance for operational costs.
Our local businesses are the backbone and center point of our economic recovery. The City is steadfast in its commitment to help our local economy rebuild.
Grants are available for up to $10,000 for local businesses and up to $5,000 for local non-profits.
To qualify, businesses must be located in the geographic boundary of St. Cloud, with no outstanding debts to the city. Businesses with fewer than five employees and/or in specified industries will be prioritized, such as: restaurants, bars, nightclubs, gyms, theaters, banquet halls, and hair/nail/spa salons. Non-profits must be located in the geographic boundary of St. Cloud or serve a client base that’s at least 51% St. Cloud residents. Organizations should provide services that address human service needs in the community, directly related to COVID-19.
The city has another $51,000 to award for Phase 1. Interested local businesses and non-profits can view links to available local, state and federal funding sources on the City’s Web site, http://www.stcloud.org/smallbusinessrecovery. You also may email economicdevelopment@stcloud.org for more information.
