Grants available to maintain local businesses

Grants available to maintain local businesses

Friday, August 14, 2020

Local businesses and community organizations are major contributors to our state's economy and culture, and the COVID-19 pandemic has had a substantial negative effect on many of them. To help them during this difficult time, a number of grants have been made available to provide some financial relief.

Recently, Lt. Gov. Suzanne Crouch and the Indiana Office of Community and Rural Affairs (OCRA) announced Taking Care of Main Street, a new program to provide operational support for Indiana Main Street businesses, with special consideration for organizations who have been significantly impacted by COVID-19.

Grants of up to $5,000 will be awarded to at least forty Main Street programs that can show how COVID-19 has negatively affected their community and businesses, how this money would be used to solve some of those problems, a current work plan, and other qualifying factors.

Eligible expenses could include salaries; administrative and consultant fees; space and equipment rental; and staff development and training. Each eligible application will be reviewed and awarded by OCRA on a first come, first served basis until funds are depleted. To view more information on this grant and to apply online, click here.

Additionally, through the Arts, Cultural and Destination Marketing Organization Support Grant, the Indiana Destination Development Corporation (IDDC) will provide operating support to local entities, events, and arts and cultural organizations whose normal business has been interrupted due to COVID-19. Via an application process, funding will be available to help preserve and sustain the cultural organization and events that contribute to the character and health of the community. To apply for this program or to learn more, click here