When the COVID-19 pandemic started almost a year ago business owners never thought the impact would force some to close and others to struggle. It didn't take long before the impact was felt across the state and here in the Yakima Valley. Over the last year some businesses have closed and others have tried to stay open while trying to navigate the COVID-19 regulations. Restaurant owners have had to find ways to stay open and stay afloat with take-out orders, outdoor seating and limited capacity inside restaurants. Unlike many small businesses grocery stores have been able to stay open during the pandemic.
Many businesses have taken advantage of state grants made available through the city and county. More help is on the way through a new grant program in the city of Yakima especially for small business or what the city calls micro-business.
On Tuesday the Yakima City Council approved $266,406 for a second round of assistance for micro-businesses (five or fewer employees) for reimbursement of expenses related to COVID-19. If you own a micro-business in Yakima officials say they're finalizing an application process with the new program set to start on February 15.
The Yakima County Development Association will administer the grant funding through a contract with the city of Yakima.

The money comes from a Community Development Block Grant (CDBG), a Federal program intended to expand economic opportunities for people in low and moderate-income brackets.

Previously, in July 2020, the City Council set aside $480,000 in CDBG funds to assist micro-businesses with expenses associated with COVID-19.

Call 575-1140 or visit Yakima County Development Association web page for more information.

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