In an effort to assist local non-profits and businesses that are struggling because of the coronavirus pandemic, the City of Longmont has announced “The Boost Longmont Business Grant.”

The new grant will help to reimburse struggling organizations with fewer than 25 employees in Longmont with their COVID-19 related expenses, such as loss of revenue, payroll and employee benefits, debt payments, commercial lease or mortgage and utility payments, location modifications, supplies and services to comply with COVID-19 safety measures and more.

“When we first went into the pandemic there was of course federal funding, and since then many businesses have applied for those grants, but many haven’t were not eligible or didn’t receive any of those funds. Many of our businesses are still struggling, so this comes at a really good time because some of those other funding options are no longer there. said Scott Cook, the CEO for Longmont’s Chamber of Commerce.

“This will (hopefully) bring back some optimism (within the business community).”

Each qualified business could receive up to $15,000 through the United States Department of the Treasury as part of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES).

Applications for the Boost Longmont Business Grant Program are open, starting Oct. 20 through Nov. 1, and can be found here

Cook said that each local businesses whether for profit or non-profit, makes the community a little more unique.

“The small businesses in Longmont are a very important part of the unique culture and fabric in the community. We have a lot of support from residents for our small businesses,” Cook said.