Tioga County is accepting applications for a new round of grants aimed at helping small businesses start or expand.
The county’s Economic Development and Planning office says eligible businesses may apply for awards ranging from $5,000 to $35,000. Applicants must have a retail component in Tioga County and may have no more than five workers, including the owner or owners. Businesses must also provide a cash contribution equal to 10 percent of the project cost.
Grant money may be used for eligible equipment, fixtures, inventory, operating costs, training, technical assistance and business technology. The program is structured as reimbursement funding, which means recipients must first pay for approved purchases and submit documentation before receiving grant money.
Businesses selected for an award must complete approved business training. The county says the program is available to qualifying new and expanding businesses in communities across Tioga County, including Owego, Barton and Waverly.
Applications are due October 13. Business owners should review the full program guidelines before applying because eligibility and documentation requirements apply. Application materials and additional information are available through the Tioga County Economic Development and Planning office.
The county received Community Development Block Grant microenterprise funding for the program. The goal is to support small local businesses while encouraging job creation and retention in Tioga County.
