Burns offers assistance in applying for new $225 million small business grant program

Rep. Frank Burns    June 8, 2020 | 5:03 PM

HARRISBURG, June 8 – State Rep. Frank Burns is offering the assistance of his office for small businesses interested in applying for a piece of the $225 million in grants being offered by the state to small businesses impacted by the COVID-19 public health crisis and business closure order.

“One of my jobs as your state representative is to make sure everyone is aware of state grant opportunities,” Burns said. “I also go above and beyond by offering free help with the application process through an experienced grant writer who is on staff. Simply contact my office for help.”

The new program was created by Burns and the state legislature when it set aside that portion of federal stimulus funding for small business relief.

Eligible businesses will be able to use the grants to cover operating expenses during the shutdown and transition to re-opening, and for technical assistance including training and guidance for business owners as they stabilize and relaunch their businesses.

The funds will be available through three programs:

  • $100 million for the Main Street Business Revitalization Program for small businesses that experienced loss as a result of the governor’s March 19 order relating to the closure of all non-life-sustaining businesses and have or will incur costs to adapt to new business operations related to COVID-19.
  • $100 million for the Historically Disadvantaged Business Revitalization Program for small businesses that experienced loss as a result of the business closure order, have or will incur costs to adapt to new business operations related to COVID-19, and in which socially and economically disadvantaged individuals own at least a 51% interest and also control management and daily business operations.
  • $25 million for the Loan Payment Deferment and Loss Reserve Program, which will allow Community Development Financial Institutions the opportunity to offer forbearance and payment relief for existing portfolio businesses that are struggling due to the impact of COVID, as well as shore up the financial position of the CDFIs that are experiencing significant increased defaults in their existing loan portfolios. 

Anyone interested in obtaining grant-seeking help or direction is asked to contact Burns’ office at 814-736-7339. 

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