The Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) will offer $10 million in grants for Michigan small businesses adversely affected by COVID-19 to meet urgent capital needs such as rent and utilities.

Eligible businesses are limited to the following:

• Restaurants, bars, and other food and beverage service providers

• Travel and tourism destinations including lodging providers

• Live event venues and movie theaters

• Conference and meeting facilities

• Ice skating rinks, indoor water parks, and bowling centers

• Gyms and fitness centers

Each business can qualify for up to $15,000 in funding if they meet the eligibility criteria, which includes but is not limited to:

• Having fewer than 50 employees

• Complying with all State and local COVID-19 orders

• Identifying a need for payroll, rent or mortgage payments and/or utility expenses

The grant application opens on Tuesday, December 15, at 9 am. Grants will be awarded on a first-come, first-served basis, and funding will be shared among each of Michigan’s ten prosperity regions.  Washtenaw County is in Region 9 with Livingston, Jackson, Hillsdale, Lenawee & Monroe counties.  Region 9 is eligible for $900,000 in grant monies.  By early January 2021, the grantees will be notified of awards with funds being disbursed by the Michigan Municipal League by the end of January 2021.