DUBOIS – The deadline for businesses in Clearfield County to apply for funding through the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act is fast approaching. Applications must be submitted by Nov. 15.
The North Central PA LaunchBox Powered by Penn State DuBois is equipped with an on-site computer lab and knowledgeable staff ready to assist business owners with completing online applications at their downtown DuBois location, 2 E. Long Ave., Suite 120, DuBois, PA 15801.
The LaunchBox will work specifically with small businesses to process their applications and determine their losses. Small business owners who wish to apply for funding may do so at https://dubois.psu.edu/launchbox and can contact LaunchBox Director Brad Lashinsky at ncpalaunchbox@psu.edu or 814-375-4704 to schedule an appointment for assistance in filing their application.
The LaunchBox team is helping to administer a second round of funding for small businesses adversely impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. The Clearfield County Commissioners recently announced a second round of grant funding aimed at helping the local economy recover from losses suffered during this time.
So far, the LaunchBox has helped to process more than 50 applications for small businesses in Clearfield County in need of financial relief.
While the LaunchBox works specifically with business owners, elected officials hope to assist municipalities and non-profit organizations located in Clearfield County as well, and ask they complete the online application process at www.clearfieldco.org.
Lisa Kovalick, the county’s community development specialist, will administer the non-profit grants. She can be reached at lkovalick@clearfieldco.org. Municipalities with questions should e-mail cccomm@clearfieldco.org.
The portals will be open through 11:59 p.m. Nov. 15, 2020. No applications will be accepted after that date.
An initial round of funding was distributed beginning in September of Clearfield County’s $7,157,429 award from the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development. Approximately $3 million remains to be distributed at this time.
Clearfield County Commissioners say there is a very limited window to grant these funds, as all CARES funds must be spent by Dec. 30, 2020.
They ask that all applicants provide accurate information in order to receive the greatest consideration for funding. Detailed instructions can be found in the portals. Those entities that have received no other assistance, such as a PPP loan or other grants, will be given top priority.
Entities awarded a grant by Clearfield County in the prior round are ineligible for second-round funding. Small businesses and non-profit organizations, which were denied funding, are welcome to reapply if their financial situation has changed.
Second round small business grants are capped at $5,000 for those under $200,000 annual revenue, and at $10,000 for those with revenue above $200,000. Non-profit and municipality amounts will be decided on a case-by-case basis.