MOUNT VERNON – Given the sustained economic uncertainty caused by the COVID-19 situation, businesses around the county may still be suffering financial losses. To meet this need, the Knox County Commissioners have created a Business Disruption Grant (BDG) for Knox County-based businesses that have been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.
To be eligible for the up-to-$10,000 grant, businesses must be able to demonstrate stable business operations prior to COVID-19 and a need for assistance. Grants must be used for business operations like payroll, inventory, utilities, rent, etc., only. It cannot be used for new equipment, building improvements, hiring new staff, etc.
Each application is reviewed to determine financial need in the order it is received by the 12-member committee made up of local business and finance experts. Applications must be submitted by 5 p.m. Oct. 15. Applications can be downloaded from the Area Development Foundation’s website, www.knoxadf.com.
The program, funded by the Knox County Commissioners with American Rescue Plan money, is administered by Area Development Foundation, Knox County’s economic development entity.
“While the pandemic is still prevalent across the county, businesses may still be experiencing a decline in revenue. This program is intended to provide needed assistance to the area businesses while conditions still remain uncertain,” said Jeff Gottke, president of the Area Development Foundation. “ADF is committed to supporting local businesses as they try to keep their doors open.”
