Communities and businesses in Carbon County continue to feel the increased impact of COVID-19. Carbon Chamber and Economic Development Corp. has been engaged since the onset of this outbreak to be sure businesses stayed informed and know what assistance is available.

CCEDC has announced its COVID Shutdown Loan Program.

Low interest loans of $1,000 to $2,500 are available to small businesses located in Carbon County that have been affected by the COVID pandemic at a fixed interest rate of 1%.

Monthly payments will be deferred for the first six months of the loan. Loan funds may be used for expenses that were incurred after April 1, and include utility expenses, rent or mortgage and business supplies.

In addition, Gov. Tom Wolf announced a $225 million statewide grant program to support small businesses that were impacted by the COVID-19 public health crisis and subsequent business closure order.

The Department of Community and Economic Development will distribute the funds to the 17 Community Development Financial Institutions across the state which will in turn administer the funding in the form of grants. The three CDFI’s that serve Carbon County are Rising Tide, Metro Action and Reinvestment Fund.

Eligible businesses will be able to use the grants to cover operating expenses during the shutdown and transition to reopening, and for technical assistance including training and guidance for business owners as they stabilize and relaunch their businesses.

For information on both of these programs, contact the CCEDC at 610-379-5000.