County Receives Additional Funding For Small Business Assistance

Cortland County says they have received additional funding designated towards supporting small businesses within the county. The county is now accepting applications for the Microenterprise Assistance Program. The program is a grant initiative that is made possible by funding awarded from the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Microenterprise Assistance Program.

Cortland County says the program is designed to support new and expand small businesses by providing crucial financial assistance to assist in growing their businesses. Grants will range from $5,000 to $35,000 and will be available for eligible businesses to assist in the purchasing of equipment, inventory, working capital, and other essential business needs. The goal of the grant is to ensure long-term success for small businesses.

“Small businesses are the backbone of our local economy, and we are committed to providing them with the resources they need to thrive,” said Kevin Fitch, Chair of the Cortland County Legislature. “This grant program will not only help business owners invest in their future but also contribute to job creation and economic growth within Cortland County.”

This program is open for microenterprises that are defined as a business with 5 of fewer employees, owner included. Businesses must also meet low-to-moderate income guidelines or demonstrate their business will create jobs for low-to-moderate income individuals.

Other eligibility criteria include:

• The business must be located in Cortland County.
• The owner must contribute at least 10% cash equity of the total project cost.
• Participants must complete a required training program designed to strengthen business operations.

Applications are currently being accepted and interested business owners are asked to review the program guidelines and application materials available HERE. Completed applications must be mailed or delivered in person (email submissions are not accepted) to: Ryan Harriott, Thoma Development Consultants, 34 Tompkins Street, Cortland, NY 13045.