The goal of Round 2.5 is to provide support for businesses that are open or re-opening but still recovering and struggling with the financial impact of COVID-19 either through restrictions on their business type, reduction in customers due to the pandemic, and/or businesses that have incurred additional expenses to make their places of business safer for the public (installation of barriers, hand sanitizer/dispensers, masks, etc.).


Base Eligibility:

• Must be a for-profit business of any legal structure or an independent contractor.
• Must be located and operated from within the Garner town limits or greater Garner area, generally defined as zip codes 27529 and 27603 north of Ten-Ten Road and south of Tryon Road.
• Must operate in a sector or provide a service severely impacted by Federal, State, or Local restrictions implemented as a result of the COVID-19 virus.
• Priority business types for Award will be:
     • Barber/Salon/Personal Care
     • Gym and Fitness Studios and Indoor Fitness
     • Restaurants
     • Service businesses and independent contractors especially impacted by COVID-19 Phase 1, 2, and 2.5.

Other Criteria:

• Businesses must be complying with and enforcing State Law and Guidance related to social distancing, face coverings, and other operating limitations and continue to do so.
• Businesses cannot have received PPP or SBA loans.


Expected Grant Uses:
 
• Essential items needed to upfit/upgrade your business to make it safer  for the public.(installation of barriers, hand sanitizer/dispensers, masks, gloves, etc.).
• Equipment, programs, or technology to assist your business to transition to or increase ecommerce presence and sales.
• Paying staff, contractors, or vendors.


Applications are due by 5pm Wednesday September 30th. Applications after 5pm will not be considered.

Award announcements are expected to be made by October 5, 2020.

Grants funds should be disbursed within 5-7 days after award announcements.