FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: 5/28/20
For more information, contact Tony Rodriguez
La Porte County Office of Economic Development
219‐877‐8830
La Porte County Life Line Grants Go Live
***La Porte County Action Fund Approved to Distribute Grants to Small Businesses***
(La Porte Indiana): On Wednesday, May 20th,the La Porte County Commissioners announced the formal launch of the La Porte County Action Fund (LCAF) which is designed to be a lifeline to any small businesses located within the unincorporated areas of the county. Through decisive action and the cooperative efforts of La Porte County Commissioners, Council, and (insert the name of the department followed by OCRA in parenthesis) , small businesses throughout LaPorte County have the opportunity to take advantage of a life line during the COVID‐19 pandemic. The source of this grant money comes from the Office of Community and Rural Affairs(OCRA), which is funded by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development> The grant program meets federal requirements which mandates that La Porte County abide by the Low‐to Moderate Income guidelines and clearly document eligibility for any small business receiving funding..
“We as county leaders are aggressively doing everything we possibly can to tap into all programs that the State of Indiana and the Federal Government have approved through the CARES Act. Our small business community is the backbone of our local economy providing paychecks and jobs for our citizens and families. These vitally important small businesses have been hard hit by this economic crisis, making these lifeline grants even more critical., ” stated La Porte County Commission President, Sheila Matias.
On May 26th, La Porte County Council held a public hearing on the OCRA COVID‐19 Emergency Grant Fund and focused on the details of how these funds will be administered, who is eligible, and the guidelines being used to select those businesses most in need. “It is our job as County Council representatives to do everything we possibly can to make a difference for our community during these unprecedented times”, stated Randy Novak, President of the La Porte County Council.
“The State of Indiana has prided itself on being fiscally responsible and prudent in spending. This is an example of how in times of crisis, we can step up and make a difference in many small business owners’
lives. We certainly feel that this LCAF Grant fund will be that lifeline that makes the difference.” stated James Pressell, Indiana House of Representatives
Northwest Indiana Small Business Development Center, a key strategic partner for business development and growth in La Porte County, is assisting in the promotion of the LCAF grant for small businesses. “From the Economic Injury Disaster Loans and Paycheck Protection loan, La Porte County Community and Economic Development has helped us to promote the process and assist businesses to access these funds with us. We are happy to do the same and keep small businesses alive in La Porte County,” stated Lori Feldt, Regional Director.
Payroll, lease/rent payments, capital equipment purchases, inventory, and COVID‐ related expenses required to operate the business safely are examples of the kinds of eligible expenses which can be funded with this grant.. Businesses are encouraged to complete the application as soon as possible so that the grants administrators can prepare and batch these applications together which will allow La Porte County to bundle employment statistics to ensure eligibility.
More information regarding the fund and how to apply can be found on the La Porte County website.
Applications are now open. The application process closes on Friday, June 12th at 4:00pm.