Grant money available for sole proprietors, businesses and nonprofits

COVID-19 Agriculture Assistance Program Now Open

The Vermont Agency of Agriculture, Food & Markets (AAFM) is now accepting applications for the COVID-19 Agriculture Assistance Program for dairy producers and processors who have experienced income loss, additional expenses, and market disruption as a result of the pandemic. $25 million is available for businesses through the federal Coronavirus Relief Fund.

For details about the application process, eligibility, and upcoming educational webinars on the program, visit the AAFM website.

Health Care Stabilization Grant Program

The $275 million Health Care Provider Stabilization Grant Program to support an array of health care providers, being administered through the Agency of Human Services (AHS), is now accepting applications. The application period will be open through August 15, 2020. Health care and human service providers may use the application to seek grant funding for both COVID-19-related lost revenue and COVID-19-specific incurred expenses.

AHS will also be administering the Front-Line Employees Hazard Grant Program. Though the program is not available yet, you can sign up to receive updates through their online form.

Economic Recovery Grants Update

$33 million in grant awards were paid to Vermont businesses through the Department of Taxes this week. Grant payments from ACCD are expected to go out starting next week. There is still money available and time remains to apply. Funds are available to Vermont businesses who can demonstrate a revenue decline of at least 50% in any one-month period from March 1, 2020 to August 31, 2020, when compared with the same month in 2019. The Economic Recovery Grants landing page has full details, including eligibility requirements, document preparation instructions, and a series of FAQs to assist businesses in completing the application.