WEST PLAINS, MO – Applications are now open for the CARES Act Grant Relief Program for small businesses, and the first round of funding has been awarded to several area businesses. More than $100,000 has been given to businesses in Howell County so far, with much more to come. Recipients include Wages Brewing Company, Rubydoo’s Vintage Events, Easy Discount Floorcovering, Physical Therapy Specialist Clinic, Midwest Counseling and Assessment, Glass Sword Cinema, Miansa Freight, and Alisha Rodriguez, Massage Therapist.
“The money that we received from the Howell County CARES Act Small Business Relief Grant will help us keep our facility safe throughout the winter by improving our outdoor space with a partial enclosure to provide protection from the elements, while promoting social distancing. We’ll also be able to upgrade our HVAC filters and purchase a sanitizing dishwasher and an electronic wand to keep the virus at bay” said Phil Wages, owner of Wages Brewing Company.
The program was established by the Howell County Commission, which has partnered with the Ozarks Small Business Incubator (OzSBI) to serve as the grant administrator for the funds. The grant is available to businesses within Howell County who have experienced a financial hardship due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Funds will be awarded on a first-come first-serve basis, so affected businesses are encouraged to apply right away while funds are still available.
“If your business has taken on extra expenses like overhead costs during the mandatory shutdown, or if you need to purchase additional PPE or sanitizing equipment to combat the spread of the virus, you absolutely should apply for funding through this grant,” said Autumn Shirley, Grant Administrator at OzSBI. “Nearly all small businesses in our county are likely to qualify for at least some funding and we really want to get this money to the businesses that need it the most.”
To be eligible, businesses must: be a for-profit, independently-owned business or independently-operated franchise geographically located within Howell County; have 500 or fewer employees; possess valid city, county, and state licensure to operate; and be in operation prior to March 1, 2020. Eligible applicant businesses must also provide proof of a business hardship created by COVID-19.
“I’m surprised that we haven’t received more applications, to be honest.” said Shirley. “I thought we would see a lot more interest, particularly from restaurants, beauty salons, massage therapists, and other businesses that serve the public but were forced to close during the statewide shutdown.”
The Ozarks Small Business Incubator is currently accepting applications, and there are still funds available to award, but the applications must be submitted by December 11th, 2020 in order to be considered.
“We know small business are struggling due to COVID-19. The Howell County CARES grant can provide some financial relief as businesses work to overcome the negative impact COVID has had on their business. We don’t know what the future will bring, so it’s important for businesses to take advantage of opportunities like this,” said Heather Fisher, OzSBI CEO. Director.
To apply, applicants should access the Howell County CARES Small Business Relief Program Application online at https://ozsbi.com/hocomocares. Detailed application instructions, a FAQ, and a list of required supporting documentation are posted with the application. Applicants are required to submit completed applications and documentation either in-person or by mail to OzSBI. OzSBI is located at 408 Washington Ave. in downtown West Plains. Hours for drop-off are 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. Mailed applications may be sent to:
Ozarks Small Business Incubator (OzSBI)
408 Washington Ave.
West Plains, MO 65775
Questions regarding the Howell County CARES Small Business Relief Program application process may be directed to Autumn Shirley, Grant Administrator by email at hocomocares@ozsbi.com or by phone at 417-256-9724.
