Small Business Grant Program Expands to Many Local Businesses

MANATEE COUNTY, FL (Aug. 13, 2020) – Many more Manatee County businesses are expected to become eligible to apply for CARES Act relief following the County’s announcement that eligibility for funding has been substantially expanded.

Beginning Monday, Aug. 17, Manatee County small businesses may apply for up to $50,000 through the the second round of the Recover Manatee Safety First Small Business Grant Program. Businesses can receive a $5,000 base grant for safe operations and up to $45,000 for reimbursement of recorded losses due to business interruption caused by required closures caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

In the new grant period that opens Monday there are fewer requirements and eligibility for the grant has expanded to include all industries that are active, private for-profit business, including home-based businesses. Business must have 500 employees or less and be located in the County and the cities of Bradenton, Palmetto, Holmes Beach, Anna Maria, Bradenton Beach and the Town of Longboat Key. 

The application and more information on the program are available atwww.mymanatee.org/manateecares. The application window opens Aug. 17 and will remain open until funds are exhausted. Applicants are asked to review eligibility requirements and FAQs on the site before calling a special helpline at (941) 745-6271 or emailingrecovermanatee@mymanatee.org to ask for help. 

“We know that small businesses are struggling right now. We hope that with expanded eligibility for grants up to $50,000, businesses can begin the recovery process and feel some relief,” said Geri Lopez, director of the Redevelopment and Economic Opportunity department overseeing the program. 

A business is asked to check that they meet the eligibility guidelines and then file an online application with the Redevelopment & Economic Opportunity Department. Documentation to be uploaded with the application includes a Profit and Loss Statement, proof of active business located in Manatee County, and IRS forms documenting number of employees. 
 

For more information on Manatee County Government, visit www.mymanatee.org or call (941) 748-4501.