Grants of up to $10,000 are available for Flint small businesses

FLINT, Michigan—Grants are available for small businesses in Flint that have been forced to close or reduce service because of the outbreak of COVID-19.

Genesee County has access to up to $260,000 through the Michigan Small Business Relief program. The program is being administered countywide by the Flint & Genesee Chamber of Commerce in conjunction with the Michigan Economic Development Corporation. 

“These dollars provide a critical lifeline for small businesses struggling to stay afloat and to continue paying employees during these challenging times,” Mayor Sheldon Neeley said. “I encourage our small business owners to apply and thank Gov. Gretchen Whitmer for dedicating these dollars to our community.”

Grants of up to $10,000 are available for businesses with 50 employees or fewer. The funding can be used to support payroll expenses, pay rent or mortgage payments, and other similar expenses. 

In addition to the grants, loans of between $50,000 and $200,000 are available through the Michigan Small Business Relief Program for businesses with 100 employees or fewer. An additional $10 million statewide is available.

The deadline to apply for either a grant or loan is 11:59 p.m. Sunday, March 29, 2020. Applications will be reviewed the following day and recipients will be notified of their award on Tuesday, March 31, 2020. APPLY HERE.

Completed applications should be emailed to [email protected].

“The window for this opportunity is small but we want to make sure Flint businesses take advantage of these resources,” said Khalfani Stephens, director of economic development for the City of Flint. 

Low interest loans also are available through the Small Business Administration Disaster Loan Assistance program. Details are available from the Flint & Genesee Chamber.