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New grants to help struggling small businesses are on the way

For the next wave of grants, totaling $55 million, the MEDC is trying a new method of distribution.

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich — Small business owners, many still closed, have been waiting and asking for more help. That help is just around the corner.

"We understand that there continues to be enormous need," says Mark Burton, President and CEO of the Michigan Economic Development Corporation.

Back in December, the MEDC rolled out a grant program on a first come, first serve basis. Z's Bar and Grill in Grand Rapids was one of thousands of small businesses that tried and failed to receive one.

"Some help from the state would be fantastic. We've been shutdown a long time," says Rob Butler, Operations Manager at Z's. "Nothings been done. A lot of talk has happened but we haven't seen anything."

For the next wave of grants, totaling $55 million, the MEDC is trying a new method of distribution.

"What we looked at just a couple months ago is how do we get as many businesses to survive the winter as possible," says Burton.

Beginning next week, small businesses can apply online for a grant. Businesses that closed during the pandemic are eligible for up to $20,000. Those that remained open are eligible for up to $15,000.

"The program will be run in conjunction with 15 local economic development organizations across the state," says Burton.

The idea is the local organizations know who has been hit the hardest, and will be able to make the best decision on where the money should go. Burton says he knows this wave of grants will be a big help to businesses across the state and that more help is on the way in the near future.

"We keep standing up programs and using every dollar that we can and push it to those who need it most to survive the winter," he says.

The applications will be open from January 19 at 9 a.m. to noon on January 22. You can find more information on eligibility requirements by clicking here.

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