$50 million available for business relief grants

OLYMPIA—Governor Jay Inslee recently announced a $135 million assistance package to target the hard-hit small businesses and families.

The relief package breakdown includes $50 million in emergency relief grants, allocated for businesses most impacted by the current public health measures with annual revenue of $5 million or less in 2019. Application for the Round Three Working Washington Small Business Grants opened early this week/ This grant prioritizes restaurants, fitness centers, bowling alleys, and music and event venues. Round Three is capped at $20,000. Funds can only be used to cover expenses or costs incurred due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Applicants should be prepared to provide a W-9 Request for Taxpayer Identification Number, a copy of a valid government-issued photo I.D. a copy of the 2019 Tax Return, proof of the business’s physical location, and a NAICS code or description of primary business activity. Applications that are submitted by December 10 will receive priority consideration.

An additional $20 million in grants will be distributed to eligible applicants from an earlier resiliency grant round who did not receive funding. The plan includes $30 million in business recovery loans, $20 million in rental assistance through the Eviction Rent Assistance Program, and $15 million in utility payment assistance through the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP).

To apply for assistance, visit http://startup.choosewashingtonstate.com/working-washington-round-3/.

The Port of Columbia has offered to assist eligible businesses with the application help. Simply contact the Port of Columbia at (509) 382-2577.