With supplemented unemployment benefits expiring this past week and the ongoing economic impact of COVID-19, the State of Michigan is leveraging federal funding through the CARES Act to continue to support the economic recovery of small businesses in the state. Two grant programs were recently announced, with funding up to $20,000 for qualified applicants. The application periods on both grants close next week, on the 5^th and 7^th of August. Below is a quick summary of each grant opportunity with links for additional information and access to the applications.

Details on The Michigan COVID-19 Safety Grant

The following are important details to note as you consider your application for the Michigan COVID-19 Safety Grant.

• Grants are up to $10,000.
• Application window is July 27th-August 7th, 2020.
• Must have less than 250 employees to be eligible.
• Must submit a safety plan as part of the application.
• Grant is reimbursement based for protective equipment like physical barriers, PPE, cleaning supplies, ventilation changes etc. It will not cover personnel or operating costs of business.
• The following business types will be given preference for grant funds based on higher transmissibility risk: Bars and Restaurants, Retail, Gyms, Personal Services, Nursing Homes and Long-Term Care Facilities, and High Worker Density Manufacturing.

How To Apply For MIOSHA COVID-19 Safety Grants

You can apply online at this link and find additional information on the COVID-19 safety grants by visiting this link.

Details On The Michigan Small Business Restart Grant

The following are important details to note as you consider your application for the Michigan Small Business Restart Grant.

• Grants are up to $20,000.
• Application window is from July 15th- August 5th, 2020.
• Businesses or non-profits with 50 or less employees are eligible. This is actual employees, not FTE’s.
• Must demonstrate income loss due to COVID-19 in order to be eligible. A list of all grant recipients will be posted to the public on michiganbusiness.org
• Similar to PPP loan in usage- can be used to cover payroll, rent, mortgage, utility or other similar expenses.
• 30% of all funds allocated to programs will be given to women, veteran, or minority owned businesses. Grants will be administered by 15 local Economic Development Organizations.
• Business is NOT eligible for funds if they have already received grant funds from the Michigan Strategic Fund’s Michigan Small Business Relief Program. Other federal or local loans or grants do not disqualify a business from applying.

How To Apply For A Michigan Small Business ReStart Grant

You can apply online at this link and find additional information about the Michigan Small Business Restart Grant online right here.

MRPR stands ready to help you understand the PPP or to assist you in obtaining sources of additional capital or financing. Contact us for help at any time.