Struggling small businesses and organizations may qualify for grant money
Organizations and small businesses may qualify for grant money allocated by Ellis County to kickstart the local economy during the current COVID-19 pandemic.
Following approval from the Ellis County commissioner’s court over the last several months, the money offered through the Economic Relief Grant will parcel out $1 million to qualifying entities in three categories: health care, non-profit organizations, and small businesses with fewer than 50 employees.
Originating from Federal money made available from the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (C.A.R.E.S.) Act passed by Congress last spring, the ERG will go to grant recipients to be used for the following:
- Payroll costs for employees or owners draw (sole proprietors/partners)
- Contract Labor
- Supplier Payments
- Rent, lease, or interest on mortgage payment (for real property used for business purposes, like a storefront or warehouse, excluding personal residence)
- Rent, lease, or purchase payment for business property (e.g., delivery vehicle; food truck; kitchen equipment; technology, payment, and communications systems and equipment)
- New or expanded technology applications and Wi-Fi services Contract Labor
- Utility payments for business properties, excluding personal residence
- Cost of critical business operations (raw materials, marketing expenses, etc. payments)
- PPE, sanitation supplies and equipment interest on other business debt obligations incurred before March 1, 2020, excluding personal residence.
The county will accept applications for the grant from December 9, 2020 to January 8, 2021.
Applications will then be reviewed and scored by a committee consisting of appointed citizens from Ellis County. Qualifying recipients will then be notified of their grant afterward.
“We are living in extraordinary times. The COVID-19 response has caused organizations across the county to act swiftly and expand their capacity of services while only receiving a limited supply of funding. This community truly is one to be celebrated. Since the beginning of this battle against COVID-19, we have seen neighbors working hand in hand to ensure the future success of our home. Today, we join together as one to bring financial support to our local economy; to include our healthcare partners, nonprofits, social service agencies, and local small businesses to empower the livelihoods of Ellis County residents,” Ellis County Judge Todd Little said in a social media post announcing the program.
To apply for the ERG either online or on paper, visit https://www.co.ellis.tx.us/1010/Submit-An-Application.
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