Grants available through County for small businesses

Small businesses in Botetourt, starting June 24, can apply for a grant up to $5,000 for assistance as part of a grant program Botetourt County has created using funds from the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act.

Eligible small businesses would have less than 100 employees. The business, which includes sole proprietorships, LLCs, and other types of self-employment, must have been a qualified business in Botetourt County as of February 29, 2020.

Assistance can be used for professional services such as legal fees, accounting, marketing, ecommerce, software, website development, technology hardware and/or lost inventory.

Losses must be related to COVID-19. This could include closure, suspension of operations, or loss of products (such as spoiled food).

Agriculture operations are also eligible for this aid but must provide documentation of operation since agriculture operations due not require a business license.

Qualifying businesses must have been and continue to be in compliance and good standing with all local ordinances, county tax rolls, and fee assessments.

For additional information, contact the Botetourt County Economic Development Office.

                                                — Anita Firebaugh, Special to The Botetourt Bee