On December 30, 2020 St. Louis County announced it is preparing to launch a third round of COVID relief assistance for small businesses and eligible non-profits hurt by the pandemic.

The application period is expected to begin in mid-January for Phase 3 of St. Louis County Small Business Relief Grants. This latest round of grants will use funds provided by the State of Minnesota, and offers more flexibility than previous CARES-funded grants.

Businesses will be able to apply for up to $45,000, with funds able to be used for direct COVID-19 related expenses, such as PPE and cleaning supplies; as well as operating expenses including, rent, mortgage, utilities, real estate taxes and insurance; and even for payroll.

To be eligible, businesses and non-profits must be physically located in St. Louis County, have no current tax liens on record with the Secretary of State at the time of application; and must have been impacted by a Minnesota Executive Order related to the COVID-19 pandemic.

St. Louis County has received $3.8 million from the state to distribute to small businesses and non-profits during this third phase. More details will be provided as they are finalized, including application dates and opportunities to participate in a virtual presentation about the grant program and application instructions.

People interested in learning more are encouraged to contact the St. Louis County Planning and Community Development Department at cares@stlouiscountymn.gov or 218-725-5000. 

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