Applications opened Monday for Douglas County’s newest COVID-19 relief grants, $15 million to be distributed to restaurants and indoor event venues impacted by the pandemic.

The grant program will provide federal CARES Act funding to these businesses experiencing revenue loss from recent public health orders.

Douglas County entered Level Red COVID-19 restrictions on Nov. 20, closing all indoor dining, event and entertainment in the county. Previously, businesses were also struggling from strict customer capacity limits.

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“The Board of Douglas County Commissioners recognizes the hardship to our community caused by compliance with restrictions in these public health orders,” the county’s announcement said.

“The Commissioners believe this the most effective way to offer some relief for those who will be most impacted.”

Businesses will be awarded grants based on demonstrated revenue loss. Grant amounts will equal 10% of the revenue lost up to $200,000.

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To apply, businesses must, in part, have a physical location within Douglas County or one of its municipalities, have 200 employees or fewer and be able to demonstrate annual gross revenue loss from COVID-19 public health orders.

Applications are available online. Grants will be distributed on a first-come, first-serve basis until Dec. 30 or until the funds run out.

Questions should be directed to DCBusinessGrants@douglas.co.us or 303-660-7460.