The Northern Kentucky Chamber of Commerce and Duke Energy Foundation have launched a $100,000 relief grant program to help small businesses recover from flooding and severe weather that recently impacted Northern Kentucky.
The funding will support eligible businesses in Boone, Campbell and Kenton counties, according to a community announcement. Grants ranging from $2,500 to $10,000 will be available to businesses with 50 or fewer employees that are Duke Energy small-business customers.
Amy Spiller, president of Duke Energy Ohio and Kentucky, said the program is intended to help businesses rebound from recent flooding and a derecho while continuing to contribute to the local economy.
“Small businesses are the backbone of our communities and helping
them recover from unexpected extreme weather events like the recent flooding and derecho is essential to our region’s long-term viability,” Spiller said.
How the grants can be used
Businesses may use grant funds to reimburse past expenses or address future needs. Eligible projects include upgrades that expand service opportunities, improvements that support online sales, expansions that increase delivery capacity and workforce development initiatives.
Funding also can support storefront improvements such as exterior paint, awnings, signage and planters, as well as accessibility upgrades, outdoor seating enhancements and public-health-related improvements.
Application deadline approaching
Applications will be accepted until 5 p.m. Sept. 16. Recipients will be selected by an NKY Chamber review panel and notified in mid-September.
Business owners can apply online at NKYChamber.com/talent. Questions can be directed to Nancy Spivey at 859-426-3654 or nspivey@nkychamber.com.
This story was produced with the assistance of Artificial Intelligence (AI). Journalists were involved in every step of the review, editing and publishing process. Learn more at cm.usatoday.com/ethical-conduct.
This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Flood-hit NKY small businesses eligible for new grant program
