Michigan board considers authorizing $58.5 million in COVID-19 relief for small businesses

Michigan Strategic Fund Board holds special meeting Thursday

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LANSING, Mich. – A Michigan board will hold a special meeting Thursday to consider authorizing another $58.5 million in COVID-19 relief for small businesses, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer said.

The money would help Michigan small businesses keep their lights on, pay employees and, in some cases, prepare to reopen when the time comes, according to the state.

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The Michigan Strategic Fund Board has a special meeting scheduled for Thursday (Jan. 14) to consider the proposal.

READ: 13 takeaways from Gov. Whitmer’s COVID update Wednesday (Jan. 13)

It would also include $55 million for Michigan Small Business Survival Grant programs, working with 15 regional economic development organizations across the state to help administer those grants, Whitmer said.

“It will also include $3.5 million for the Michigan Stages Survival Grant program working with the Michigan Independent Venue and Promoters Association to administer that program,” the governor said Wednesday.

The relief is part of the bipartisan stimulus package signed into law last month to help businesses fighting to survive during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Michigan Economic Development Corporation will provide details on how to apply for the programs after the board’s meeting.

“My administration and I are doing all we can to build on this support to make sure our small businesses not only survive the pandemic, but continue to succeed long after it has passed,” Whitmer said.


About the Author

Derick is the Lead Digital Editor for ClickOnDetroit and has been with Local 4 News since April 2013. Derick specializes in breaking news, crime and local sports.

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