Koochiching County has received $256,250 of funding through the State of Minnesota for the purpose of providing business relief grants to businesses and nonprofit organizations that suffered a financial loss caused by COVID-19 related Executive Orders. Koochiching County has established a Business Grant Program designed to provide funding for businesses/organizations located in Koochiching County. 

Grant Eligibility:

• Have a physical establishment in Koochiching County.
• Have no current tax lien with the Secretary of State.
• Have been financially impacted by a COVID-19 related Executive Order.
• Eligible Non-profit organizations include 501(c)3 and 501(c)19 Veteran’s organizations, 501(c)8 fraternal organizations, 501(c)6 business association organizations.
• Non-profits, non-profit art organizations and nonprofit museums that earn revenue similar to businesses, including but not limited to ticket sales and membership fees. 

Grant Ineligibility:

• Agriculture crop and livestock operations.
• Corporate/multi-state chains except those owned by a local franchisee.
• Finance, insurance and real estate businesses.
• Property rentals or property management.
• Government entities.
• Businesses that earn a majority of their income from online transactions.
• Businesses or non-profits that earn a majority of their income from gambling.

Acceptable uses: Grant funds must be used by the eligible business or nonprofit for operations expenses incurred during the COVID-19 pandemic. Examples follow:

• Licensing Fees
• Marketing/Advertising
• Payroll
• Property Taxes
• Rent
• Repairs to the existing building and equipment
• Supplies
• Utilities
• Other reasonable operating expenses

Documentation Required:

• Completed Application by February 25, 2021 at 4:30 p.m.
• IRS Form W9
• 2019 and 2020 Profit and Loss Statement or other documentation to substantiate 2019 and 2020 Gross and Net Income

Factors Considering in Awarding Grant Award Prioritization:

1. Businesses or organizations that have not received assistance from the State COVID-19 Business Relief Payments or entities that may have received assistance but for various reasons need further assistance. 
2. Businesses impacted by the most recent Executive Order 20-99. 
3. Non-profits, non-profit art organizations and nonprofit museums that earn revenue similar to businesses, including but not limited to ticket sales and membership fees. 
4. Other businesses meeting eligibility criteria.