CARES Pandemic Relief grant offers aid to local businesses, organizations

By Tara Bitzan, Executive Director, Alexandria Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce

      The deadline is quickly approaching for a new grant opportunity for Douglas County businesses and nonprofit organizations.
      In June, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz used his executive powers to distribute $841.5 million of CARES Act funds to counties, cities, and townships throughout the state.
    Douglas County has used some of their funds to create a CARES Pandemic Relief Grant to assist local businesses and nonprofits impacted by COVID-19.
    Eligible applicants may request a CPR Grant based upon need due to COVID-19. Actual grant award will be based on number of employees, gross revenue loss due to COVID-19, and impact on the business.
      A business is eligible even if they have received other funding, however, CPR requested funds must not be used for expenses already covered by other grant programs. They must be used for separate and unique purposes.
      This is a grant and will not need to be paid back. For more information or to apply, visit https://livingalexarea.org/business-grant/.