Grants available for Jefferson County small businesses, micro-enterprises

MADRAS, Ore. (KTVZ) -- NeighborImpact has over $25,000 available for small businesses and/or microenterprises that were financially impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.

These funds were provided by a Community Development Block Grant awarded to the City of Madras by Business Oregon. NeighborImpact submitted the Community Development Block Grant application and administers the program on behalf of Madras.  

The small business grants, of up to $20,000 each, incentivized retaining low-income jobs throughout the pandemic. To date, the program has awarded 14 grants which have directly supported the retention of 35 low- to moderate-income full-time jobs in Jefferson County, supporting local industries such as hospitality, entertainment, child care, agriculture and more.

Additional grant funds supporting this program are now available to small businesses (independently owned and operated and not dominant in its field of operation) and micro enterprises (commercial enterprise with five or fewer employees, one or more of whom owns the business) in Jefferson County. The business must have been viable prior to the pandemic and must demonstrate revenue loss that can be attributed to the pandemic, as well as a plan for recovery. The business must also demonstrate that it will retain employees earning at or below 80 percent area median income. The amount of funding awarded to each applicant is dependent on the number of low or moderate income jobs retained. Applications will be accepted until funds are fully allocated to businesses. 

For details about this grant, and to apply online, visit: https://www.neighborimpact.org/get-help/sbma-grant-program/

About NeighborImpact: NeighborImpact is a private non-profit governed by a board of directors drawn from across the community. Since 1985, NeighborImpact has led the region in developing solutions and bringing resources to Crook, Deschutes and Jefferson counties and the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs. We help meet the basic needs of Central Oregonians, build economic security and create a community where everyone thrives. NeighborImpact receives federal, state and local grants, foundation grants and donations from individuals and businesses in our community. To learn more about NeighborImpact please visit www.neighborimpact.org.