The Warren Sun

The city of Warren is currently accepting applications for the Microenterprise Assistance Grant Program, according to the city's website.

The city’s Community Development Block Grant Program has allocated the grant program up to $2 million in funds. The program was designed to grant up to $10,000 in assistance to qualified small businesses that have been economically affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. Businesses must have no more than five employees, including the owner, who must be income-qualified. The deadline for applications is Sept. 30. Eligibility may vary, depending on individual communities, and income level restrictions may apply.

The grant program is one of three grant programs launched by Macomb County Planning and Economic Development to assist small businesses struggling from the negative impacts of the coronavirus pandemic, according to a Macomb County's website.

"We are committed to our business community and want them to succeed," Macomb County Executive Mark Hackel said, according to Macomb County's website. "This next round of grants provides unique opportunities for dealing with the ongoing impact of COVID-19. Whether this means helping businesses get online and improve their digital footprint or reimbursing them for the costs of PPE (personal protective equipment), our team at Planning and Economic Development is being creative and finding new ways to boost local organizations." 

The Workplace Safety Grant has been allocated $10 million of Macomb County's federal CARES (Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security) Act relief funds. Small businesses with 500 or fewer employees may be eligible for up to $20,000 in reimbursement for the costs of PPE and technology used to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Applicants must be able to provide documentation in the form of receipts dated from Mar. 16 through Sept. 30 for reimbursement. Applications will be accepted until Sept. 30, or until funds are exhausted. 

The $5 million Online Business Connect Program has also been funded through Macomb County’s federal CARES Act funds.The program was designed to help small businesses build or improve their online presence. Vouchers up to $10,000 are available to customer-facing businesses that need online functionality due to social-distancing restrictions. Grant funding can be used to create or improve websites, social media or e-commerce stores. Applications will be accepted until Sept. 30, or until funds are exhausted. Work must be completed by Nov. 30 under contractual obligation through vetted vendors.

Visitors can find more information about the individual grant programs and application forms at Macomb's Business website.