Kalamazoo Times

Last month, 2,600 state enterprises were given over $105 million in funds through the Growing MI Business Grant Program.

According to Michigan.gov, a $5 million grant is available to businesses that were in operation before Oct. 1, 2019, in order to position themselves to succeed as the economy recovers from the COVID-19 pandemic. Businesses that were established between Oct. 1, 2019, and May 31, 2020, are eligible for 25% of operating costs.

“I was proud to work across the aisle to establish the Growing MI Business Grant so businesses could receive real relief, hire more workers and expand their operations,” Gov. Gretchen Whitmer (D-MI) told Michigan.gov. “Last year, our state experienced record economic growth and added 220,000 jobs, as unemployment dropped to a pandemic low, and this program will help businesses continue to grow and thrive. This is what is possible when we work together to grow our economy, create and protect good-paying jobs, and provide real relief for business owners as they invest in our communities.”

Whitmer said that over 2,600 organizations are burdened with mounting costs, and the grant will help them stabilize their business and contribute to the state’s economy.  

“Our top goal is to help eligible Michigan businesses receive relief so they can prosper in our economy after the pandemic,” State Treasurer Rachael Eubanks told Michigan.gov. “We carefully worked with our business partners in the private and public sectors to ensure everyone was aware of the Growing MI Business Grant Program and helped businesses navigate through the application process. I encourage businesses with questions about their grant awards to reach out to us.”

The grants will be distributed in early July among these eligible businesses: entertainment facilities, parks and recreation, barbers and cosmetologists, health clubs, restaurants, nurseries, athletic trainers, body art facilities and hospitality establishments.