Ashland, VA – On Thursday, June 18, 2020, the Ashland Economic Development Authority (EDA) approved a second round of $35,000 in funding for the Safety Enhancement Grant program, allowing the program to continue to meet local businesses’ safety needs as phased reopening continues.
“This is a critical time for many small businesses here in Town, and we want to step up and support our business community as they navigate this challenging environment,” said Tim Shelton, Chairman of the Town’s Economic Development Authority. “With Town Council’s consideration to dedicate CARES Act funds to support this effort, we are able to take this additional step to make sure our businesses have the resources they need to safely open their doors to the public again.”
Established by the EDA in May of this year, the Safety Enhancement Grant program assists local businesses with the costs of reopening after closure or impact due to the recent State of Emergency declaration for COVID-19 and subsequent executive orders in response to the pandemic. Designed in concert with local business owners, the program aims to be as flexible as possible to meet the needs of the diverse business community that calls Ashland home. Grants are available to Ashland businesses for up to $2,000 to help cover the costs of supplies and materials needed to meet safety regulations set forth by the state and various trade and professional associations.
“We are pleased Town businesses can continue to count on the EDA’s grant program for financial support during this challenging time.” said Steve Trivett, Ashland’s Mayor. “The economic needs are still there, but so too are the EDA and Town staff. We appreciate our businesses and all they do to provide the goods and services to keep our local economy rolling.”
This second round of funding brings the total invested by the EDA in Safety Enhancement Grants to $70,000. To date, the Authority has distributed just over $33,000 to more than two dozen Ashland businesses, partnering to provide over $43,000 in safety improvements.
The Safety Enhancement Grant program is open to licensed businesses located in the Town of Ashland who are in good standing on all taxes as of March 16, 2020. Grant funds can be used to cover expenses related to safety enhancements, including PPE for staff and customers, modest structural additions, and other needs as demonstrated to the review team.
Applications are available online by following the link provided and are currently being accepted on a rolling basis. Applicants are encouraged to submit completed applications by email to planning@ashlandva.gov. For more information contact Joe Topham, Business Retention & Expansion Manager, at (804) 798-1073, or jtopham@ashlandva.gov.
Application Link: http://www.ashlandva.gov/DocumentCenter/View/3443/Safety-Grant-Application_Final?bidId=
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