Community Foundation awards $225K in first round of underestimated small business grants

The Johnson County Board of Supervisors highlighted significant progress in supporting local businesses during their recent work session, focusing on the first round of the underestimated small business grants. Ellie Moore from the Community Foundation of Johnson County provided an update on the initiative, which allocated $425,000 in American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds to assist businesses disproportionately affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.

In the first round, $225,000 was awarded to 25 local businesses, with grants ranging from $3,500 to $20,000. The program specifically targeted for-profit businesses in Johnson County with at least 50% ownership from underserved groups. Moore emphasized the importance of these grants in providing operational support and funding for storefront improvements.

The application process was robust, with 171 applications received. After a thorough review, 125 were deemed eligible, and a scoring system was implemented to ensure fairness and transparency. The review committee, composed of community members with relevant experience, scored applications based on specific criteria, ensuring that the most deserving businesses received funding.

Moore also detailed outreach efforts, including multilingual flyers and in-person clinics aimed at increasing awareness and accessibility for potential applicants. These initiatives were designed to align with the Inclusive Economic Development Plan, ensuring that the grant process was inclusive and equitable.

Looking ahead, the second round of applications will distribute the remaining $200,000 in grant funds. The board is committed to refining the process based on feedback from the first round to maximize impact and support for local businesses. This initiative marks a significant step in bolstering the local economy and aiding those hardest hit by the pandemic.