Bullock announces $123 million in coronavirus relief

Gov. Steve Bullock announced the first round of emergency grants on Tuesday funded through the federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security – or CARES – Act.

Bullock said $123 million was available through nine different grants to support families, small businesses, nonprofits, health centers and individuals directly affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Montanans can apply for these grants beginning at 8 a.m. on May 7 by visiting covidrelief.mt.gov.

Small businesses with 50 or fewer employees can apply for working capital through the Montana Business Stabilization Grant program if they have lost revenue as a result of the pandemic. $50 million has been allocated toward this program, and the maximum award is $10,000

Both nonprofit and for-profit businesses can apply for the Montana Innovation Grant program, which is intended to “help companies scale up, improve capabilities, or drive expanded distribution of products or services developed in response to COVID-19,” according to a press release from the governor’s office. Businesses can apply for up to $25,000 out of a pool of $5 million.

Individuals who have lost a job or income as a result of the pandemic can apply for the Emergency Housing Assistance program. Montanans receiving other forms of housing assistance are not eligible.

Other programs include help for food banks, social services, and funding for technologies for senior citizens and individuals with disabilities.

Montana is moving through the first phase of its reopening plan. “Main Street and retail businesses” were allowed to open last week, while bars, restaurants, casinos and breweries were allowed to open in a limited capacity on Monday.

“This is still not the time to let our guard down,” the governor said.

“We’re all in this together and I know Montana will emerge from this challenge even stronger than before.”

Montana has confirmed a total of 456 cases with 410 recoveries, 16 deaths and six active hospitalizations. The state has reported just six new cases in the past week.

Reporter Colin Gaiser may be reached at cgaiser@dailyinterlake.com