Kenosha COVID-19 Small Business Recovery Fund

Kenosha COVID-19 Small Business Recovery Fund

The application window for the Kenosha COVID-19 Small Business Recovery Fund is now closed.  KABA and the selection committee are currently reviewing applications and anticipates announcing the grant awards the week of June 29th.

The Kenosha COVID-19 Small Business Recovery Fund is an emergency grant program to assist small businesses that have been adversely impacted by the state’s Safer-At-Home (SAH) order, aimed at limiting the spread of the COVID-19 virus.

Eligibility Requirements

1. Had been or are currently closed and will re-open and create at least one full time equivalent employee (FTE), which may include the business owner
2. Had been or are currently partially open and will expand services and create at least one FTE
3. 20 or fewer employees
4. Located in the City of Kenosha
5. For-profit businesses only

Grant funds can be used for working capital such as paying rent, purchasing inventory and paying salaries. Grant funds cannot be used for expenses that were previously paid for by another emergency assistance program.

The maximum grant amount is $15,000. Due to limited funds, this will be a competitive grant process. Some funding is earmarked only for businesses within Tax Incremental Financing District 4, which includes downtown. Businesses receiving the grants must use the funds to create or retain a minimum of one job. Funds do not have to be repaid as long as the business remains open and retains the job created for at least one year. Non-compliance will result in the grant being converted to a loan.

In addition, if some businesses need more than $15,000, they may apply for an interest-free loan of up to $15,000. Loans must be repaid over 48 months, with payments beginning one year after the loan originates.

The grant application window was June 8-12, 2020.