COED Presents COVID-19 Relief Checks to Cherokee Small Businesses
The Cherokee Office of Economic Development (COED) held a socially distanced “drive-through” check event today to present recipients of the Cherokee Small Business Grant Program with COVID-19 relief funding. The grant is made possible through Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act funding administered through the Cherokee County Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program.
“We have been pleased to operate this program and appreciate the confidence the county and the board of commissioners has placed in us,” said COED Chairman Marshall Day. “Supporting Cherokee’s small businesses during this challenging time is paramount to who we are as a community and our belief in their economic vitality.”The Cherokee Small Business Grant is designed to assist small businesses with operational expenses such as rent, utilities, payroll, or personal protective equipment.
A total of nine local businesses were awarded relief funding at today’s event with additional awards still in progress. Grant recipients represent a variety of businesses from coffee roasters and clock makers to karate studios and bus sales.
North Atlanta Venture Mentoring Service Venture American Cuckoo Clock Company was among those awarded. “After the virus snuffed out our launch in early 2020, we converted a Promaster van into a mobile Cuckoo Clock Gallery – turning 2020 into a successful marketing year,” said American Cuckoo Clock Owner Jodie Davis. “In just the nick of time, the grant is opening the doors to our new cuckoo clock workshop where we will have room to construct clocks, hire employees, and ultimately to become a magical destination and landmark for Cherokee County.”
Applications for a second round of grant funding are now being accepted through Friday, January 22. For full program information and to apply, visit the COED Grants page at http://cherokeega.org/grants.