HARRISBURG – State Rep. Camille “Bud” George, D-74 of Clearfield County, has announced that several deadlines for grant and college savings programs are on the horizon and fast approaching.
“The state Department of Environmental Protection’s Small Business Advantage Grant Program is open and accepting applications,” George said. “For small businesses throughout Clearfield County, this program is an excellent opportunity to obtain assistance for energy saving or pollution prevention projects.”
Eligible businesses can receive a 50 percent reimbursement grant for projects, up to $9,500. Projects must promote pollution prevention and energy efficiency and reduce costs by 25 percent and $750 annually.
Applications will be accepted until Sept. 26. The application process contains several extensive components and funds are limited. More information can be found on the DEP’s web site, www.depweb.state.pa.us/ and by clicking on the “Small Business Advantage Grants” icon. Questions can be emailed to epadvantagegrant@pa.gov.
“I encourage businesses to take advantage of this program and not delay in applying if interested,” George said.
George also noted that the applications for liquid fuels tax refunds for agricultural producers and volunteer fire, ambulance, and rescue squads are due Sept. 30.
“This is an important opportunity for eligible entities to receive a refund on liquid fuels taxes paid for fuel used in official activities,” George said. “It’s possible for our farmers and volunteer emergency companies to save a lot of well-needed dollars.”
Applications are available by calling the state Treasury Department’s Board of Finance & Revenue at 717 787-6534.
Applications for political subdivisions and nonpublic, non-profit schools are due March 31, 2013.
Finally, George encouraged families with college-bound children to visit the PA 529 program’s web site at www.pa529.com before Aug. 31, when college credit prices will rise to reflect tuition increases across the Commonwealth.
“The Pennsylvania 529 College Savings Program is a smart and effective way to pay less for tuition in the long run,” George said. “By locking in college credit prices now, families can stave off future tuition increases and spend less money in the long run.”
To help get families started, the state Treasury Department is offering free online enrollment in the PA 529 Guaranteed Savings Plan – a $50 savings – by visiting the program’s web site. Use the coupon code “Inspire” to take advantage of the offer.
“When times are tough, every dollar saved is important,” George said. “I encourage all eligible applicants to explore the grants and college savings programs.”