EAST LANSING, Mich. — The City of East Lansing has launched a Small Business Relief Program that focuses on job retention throughout the East Lansing community.
East Lansing businesses with income-eligible employees can apply to receive up to $10,000 in grant assistance towards lease payments, mortgage payments, utility payments and payroll expenses. Grant funds will be issued in $1,000 to $10,000 increments and will be issued on a reimbursement basis only.
“We are proud to launch a new program that ensures employment stability for workers throughout the City,” said East Lansing Community Development & Engagement Manager Amy Schlusler-Schmitt. “The City continues to focus its efforts on financial and economic development strategies to maintain a strong merchant community.”
Funding for this program has been provided by the Department of Housing & Urban Development (HUD). As a Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) entitlement community, the City received funds from HUD to assist in the preparation and response to the coronavirus.
Currently, $167,000 is being allocated towards grant awards, with a second round of CDBG funding expected to be announced later this fall. The application and program guidelines are available at www.cityofeastlansing.com/cdbg.