Erie County: Hardwick announces small business grant program

In partnership with 43 North, Erie County announces plan to provide direct relief to business owners

During the last session of the Erie County Legislature, Legislator Kevin Hardwick cosponsored a resolution supporting the creation of a small business grant program that would utilize Federal CARES Act funding to provide money directly to business owners impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Erie County Industrial Development Agency announced a program earlier this year for businesses and nonprofits. Given the considerable length of the public health emergency, the majority caucus felt an additional infusion of funding for businesses was warranted and requested the remainder of the CARES Act funding allocated to Erie County in April be used to support businesses of all kinds across the Western New York region.

On Oct. 13, the county executive announced the Erie County “Back to Business” grant program, which aims to support employers of less than 60 people for COVID-19-related expenses, including lease and mortgage payments, payroll costs, personal protective equipment, and more.

Hardwick stated, “I’m pleased with the program the county executive has rolled out because it allows every single business, from restaurants to small scale manufacturers, to apply for financial support. Need is strongly emphasized on the application so that those who were impacted the most can get help to keep their doors open. Small businesses keep our neighbors employed with food on their tables, and I’m happy to support them.”

Funding awards are available in three separate benefit levels: awards of up to $10,000 are available for small businesses with a sole proprietor, $25,000 for businesses with 2-25 employees, and $45,000 for businesses with up to 60 employees. To apply, visit: www.grants.ureeka.biz/backtobusiness. The application is open now through Nov. 2. All funding must be spent by Dec. 31 per Federal CARES Act guidelines.