St. Louis County Providing Additional Grants to Businesses, Restaurants Impacted by COVID-19

St. Louis County recently announced that they will be distributing more than $3 million in CARES Act funds to small businesses and restaurants as part of the County’s continued response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Small businesses impacted by COVID-19, including those located in the City of Twin Oaks, can apply for $5,000 grants to pay for operating expenses or business costs, including rent and payroll. Restaurants that have had to adapt to COVID-related public health restrictions can apply for $5,000 grants to off-set related costs for things such as equipment for outdoor dining, heaters, tents, and curbside service.

The St. Louis Economic Development Partnership will administer the new program, known as the Small Business Rapid Deployment Fund.

In order to qualify, businesses must have 25 or fewer full-time equivalent employees and have a physical presence in St. Louis County. The grants can only go to businesses significantly impacted by the continued economic challenges created by COVID-19 and will only cover expenses and costs incurred between April 1, 2020 and December 16, 2020. Businesses that have already received a County CARES Act grant are not eligible.

Application for the Small Business Rapid Deployment Fund grants will remain open until 5 p.m. Monday, December 7. Businesses and restaurants are encouraged to apply as early as possible because funding may be limited based on demand. To apply, go to the Partnership website at STLPartnership.com.