Struggling small businesses across Chatham-Kent now have more details about how and when to apply for a COVID-19 recovery grant.
Councillors approved a $200,000 grant program on June 15 to help owners prepare their small business, store, or restaurant for reopening and to protect employees, staff, and customers as they reopen. The grant is designed to help them adapt to the new normal caused by the pandemic by providing immediate funds and help them rebound from the crippling effects of COVID-19.
Each successful grant applicant could receive a maximum of $5,000 but the committee said, depending on the demand for this grant, amounts may be lower but equal for all successful applicants. The focus is on small businesses with sales less than $5 million per year which were viable (with no ongoing concerns) before the declared state of emergency on March 17, 2020.
The municipality said eligible businesses must own or lease property within Chatham-Kent and must be commercial class. Only one business may apply for the grant for those applicants who own multiple businesses and they must be able to demonstrate the financial hardship that the COVID-19 emergency has had on their bottom line. The committee may require supporting documents when it evaluates the application.
"The Small Business Recovery Grant Committee recognizes the financial strain the COVID19 pandemic has had on all forms of businesses, not-for-profits, and all levels of government," said Matt Torrance, Director of Financial Services.
The funds will be redirected from the Together CK: CK Plan 2035 Community Projects budget.
The information report will go before council Monday evening.
The application process is expected to open on July 2, 2020 and close on July 10, 2020. Applications can be submitted online at www.investCK.ca once the program opens.