In recognition of the hardships businesses on the Middle Peninsula have suffered as a result of the restrictions imposed to help slow the spread of COVID-19, the Middle Peninsula Planning District Commission, in partnership with the local governments of the region, continues to provide grant funding to companies in the region through its Back to Business program.
Back to Business Middle Peninsula grants are available to assist impacted businesses by covering a portion of the increased costs incurred in response to social distancing and compliance with the new health and safety requirements put in place to reopen.
“The elected officials of the Middle Peninsula Planning District Commission take the responsibility to assist those businesses in need as a core responsibility of the Commission’s work,” said Lewie Lawrence, Middle Peninsula Planning District Commission Executive Director.
The grant program, funded by local governments thanks to allocations from the federal CARES Act, is designed to reimburse the increased cost of changed business practices that have been spent in response to the pandemic, but not cover the normal cost of operating the business.
Gloucester-based businesses only can also request assistance for past due rent or mortgage payments.
Grant applications can be submitted online at www.b2bmidpen.com.
Businesses in the following localities are eligible to apply: Gloucester, Mathews, Middlesex, Essex, King and Queen, and the Towns of Tappahannock, Urbanna and West Point.
“This program is a prime example of what makes our region so unique and how rural coastal Virginia can come together to support its residents and business owners,” Lawrence said.
“Some businesses have had to close while others have significantly modified their operations. By coming together as a region to support businesses we are able to help get grant funds into the hands of businesses more efficiently so our entire region can lead the way in recovery.”
Businesses applying should read the eligibility requirements on the web site thoroughly, Lawrence said, and be prepared to submit various documents to support their application.
Supporting documents required include, but may not be limited to, a current 2020 copy of business license, receipts for items purchased with explanation of why the purchase was made to help continue operations during the pandemic, and photos of the items purchased.
Questions about the program or to request support in filling out the application should be directed to the Middle Peninsula Planning District Commission at 804-758-2311 or via email to dmantell@mppdc.com.
Frequently asked questions about the Back to Business Grant Program
Q: I received PPP money? Can I still apply for the Back to Business grant?
A: YES! These funds are to reimburse business costs required related to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Q: What can the grant be used for?
A: Outdoor business operations, outdoor seating areas, signage checkout counter modifications, markings, computer hardware and software, sanitation station and supplies, PPE, and disinfection contracts.
*Gloucester County businesses only can apply for rent assistance.
Q: What documentation do I need to apply for this grant?
A: Business license, receipts, photos to prove the purchase of the items and a statement explaining how the COVID-19 pandemic impacted your business.
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