New grants available for charities, small businesses providing COVID relief

St. Charles Parish charities, faith-based organizations and small businesses can now apply for up to $25,000 in grants to support COVID-19 response and relief efforts in Louisiana through the Louisiana Nonprofit and Small Business Assistance Program.

The state-wide program was created by Act 410 of the 2021 Regular Session of the Louisiana Legislature. The Louisiana Department of Revenue is administering the $10 million grant program, and eligible nonprofits include churches and other faith-based organizations, public charities and groups with federal tax-exempt status, such as 501(c)(3) organizations.

Chassity McComack, executive director of the River Region Chamber of Commerce, said she encourages any of the applicable entities to look into eligibility for their organization.

“The Chamber understands first-hand the impact of Covid on our organization and community,” she said. “Our small businesses, non-profits and faith-based organizations are imperative to the well-being in our communities. This aid is greatly needed to help those that continue to help make our region a great place to live and grow.”

According to program guidelines, nonprofits must use grant funds to provide aid to communities impacted by COVID-19. Priority consideration will be given to nonprofits providing food, employment, and education assistance programs. Small businesses must use grant funds to provide workforce development activities that directly address a negative economic impact of the COVID-19 public health emergency. All eligible small businesses must have 50 or fewer full-time or full-time equivalent employees.

Program organizers said grants will not be awarded on a first-come, first-served basis, but instead all applications will be evaluated based on federal and state guidelines, as well as on intended use of the funds. While $25,000 is the maximum grant award, not all approved applicants will receive that amount and partial grants may be awarded.

Applications are currently being accepted and will continue to be accepted throughout September. Program guidelines, eligibility requirements and the online grant application are available at www.revenue.louisiana.gov.