Business Oregon Solicits Proposals for Final Round of Matching Grants from its Oregon Small Business Relief Fund Salem, OR — Today, the final round of the $10 million grant fund Business Oregon first released in May opens for cities, counties, and Economic Development Districts that will in turn issue grants to local small businesses in their communities. Through the first two rounds Business Oregon awarded a total of $7.5 million to 60 recipients across Oregon. These recipients are listed on the Business Oregon website. “This funding is just part of our response to this pandemic, and it will help hundreds of small businesses, particularly those that could not access federal resources,” said Chris Cummings, interim Director of Business Oregon. The program puts an emphasis on sole proprietors and historically disadvantaged businesses. Communities are working with culturally-focused organizations to promote the grant to BIPOC business owners, and Business Oregon provided template applications in multiple languages. To fill gaps not reached by other programs, these funds are directed to businesses with fewer than 25 employees that have been unable to receive federal CARES Act funding, including the Small Business Administration's Paycheck Protection Program, Economic Injury Disaster Loan Emergency Advance program, or other federal COVID-related funds. Businesses may use the proceeds for any business-related operating expenses, including costs associated with reopening in line with state guidance. A full description of the program details and application requirements are onBusiness Oregon’s website. Proposals for this final round of $2.5 million in funding are due Friday July 10. Media Contact: Nathan Buehler, 503-689-3559. |