NEW ULM – Brown County is excited to announce that funding has been received by the county from the Federal CARES Act, through the State of Minnesota Department of Revenue for a new business relief grant program that will be administered through Brown County Economic Development Partners, Inc. (BCEDP). Brown County has received $3,083,468 in Coronavirus Relief Funds. Of the county’s allocation, 10% has been set-aside by Brown County Commissioners to assist businesses that have been adversely impacted by the Coronavirus.

Businesses that are eligible to apply include small businesses of 25 or less employees operating in Brown County that have been affected by Stay-at-Home orders related to COVID-19. The grant fund will give preference to businesses who have not received federal or state COVID-19 relief funds. Businesses who did receive these funds but have not received enough to meet their needs and can demonstrate additional need are encouraged to apply.

Grant amounts awarded will range from $4,500 to $37,500 and will be based on how many employees the business had as of March 1, 2020. Businesses will need to demonstrate a loss of 20% or more in revenue to be eligible.

To apply, businesses will need to provide a completed application and attachments. To access the guidelines and application, please visit www.co.brown.mn.us, request documents via email at robberma@hotmail.com, or call the BCEDP Office at (507)794-7992. Applicants must submit a completed application by August 24, 2020. Priority will be given to applications received by August 24, 2020; however, additional grants may be awarded after August 24, 2020 depending on availability of funds. Grant recipients will be notified by September 14th.

BCEDP is a non-profit organization working on behalf of entrepreneurs and business owners in partnership with local development organizations, chambers of commerce, and banks. If you need assistance with starting or expanding your business, please contact the BCEDP Office at (507)794-7992, or email robberma@hotmail.com.