Otter Tail County received $1.15 million from the recent State of Minnesota economic relief package to provide support in the form of grant funding to small businesses and non-profit organizations most impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic and related executive orders.
The 2021 Otter Tail County COVID-19 Relief Program will be open for applications until January 25, 2021, or until available funds are obligated. Priority review and funding of applicants impacted by Executive Order 20-99 who are not eligible for the direct relief payments being issued by the Minnesota Department of Revenue due to time in business or other factors will be conducted. Funding awards to other eligible applicants will be considered after the priority applications are funded.
General program guidelines:
Eligible businesses:
Independently owned and operated for-profit businesses and non-profit organizations with a physical establishment in Otter Tail County who have been impacted by Executive Order 20-99 or by prior executive orders that reduced capacity and whose ability to generate revenue were impacted.
Application process:
The online application can be accessed in the County Relief Program section HERE. Applications will be accepted online through 10:00 am on January 25, 2021.
Award amounts:
Grant awards will be up to $15,000 with individual amounts determined by demonstrated need, the impact of COVID-19 on the organization, the number of employees, and other funding received.
Use of funds:
Grant funds can be used to reimburse operational expenses including but not limited to payroll, commercial rent/mortgage payments, property taxes, utilities, insurance and license expenses, supplier payments, marketing/advertising, legal fees, and personal protective equipment.
The County’s Community Development Agency (CDA) continues to dedicate relief funding and resources to support local small businesses and important community non-profit organizations. The CDA encourages businesses and non-profits to apply for funding to assist their organizations as we navigate the road ahead together.
