Dakota County and the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) are offering two additional funding opportunities for businesses that have been affected by the Governor's Executive Orders.
Dakota County Small Business Relief Grant
Dakota County has extended its Small Business Relief Grant Program to offer a third round of grants for bars and restaurants. This program offers up to $5,000 for businesses with an on-sale liquor license. Eligible businesses must meet the following criteria:
- Have a physical location in Dakota County; and
- Was closed to the public for on-premises consumption by Executive Order 20-99; and
- Currently holds an active on-sale liquor license; and
- Can certify an impact of at least $5,000 in operating costs due to Executive Orders and agree to apply the grant s funds to those costs; and
- Is currently in good standing with the Secretary of State Office and Dakota County.
Applications are being accepted until Friday, January 8, 2021. More information about the grant and how to apply can be found here
DEED COVID-19 Business Relief Payments
DEED will be sending COVID-19 Business Relief Payments to eligible businesses under an economic relief package that was signed into law on December 16th. Businesses eligible for payment include restaurants, bars, gyms, and bowling centers. Eligible business owners do not need to take any action to receive aid. DEED will determine eligibility and payment amounts based on program requirements in the law. Details regarding eligibility and payment amounts can be found on DEED's website: https://www.revenue.state.mn.us/covid-19-business-relief-payments