Bullock Announces Millions for Montanans Affected by COVID 19

The cash is ready to flow out to Montanans who have been affected by COVID 19, said Governor Steve Bullock in a press conference on Tuesday in Helena.

Bullock detailed the $123 million in emergency grants from the federal government as Montana’s share of the CARES Act.

“Beginning Thursday, May 7^th, Montanans who are out of work, families that have limited resources, small businesses, nonprofits and others can apply for $123 million in CARES Act funds over nine new programs,” said Bullock. “The Montana Business Stabilization Grant Program will provide up to $10,000 in working capital for Montana small businesses with 50 or fewer employees who have lost revenue due to COVID 19. The Montana Innovation Grant Program will help companies scale up, improve capabilities, or drive distribution of products or services developed in response to COVID 19.”

Bullock said there was also cash for Montana’s agriculture industry.

“We will support the agriculture industry, a key industry in our state through the Montana Food and Agriculture Adaptability Program,” he continued. “Grants of up to $10,000 will be provided to food and Ag businesses to increase community resilience during the pandemic, and could include projects focused on accessing new markets, expanding local food systems or business adaptations to reduce food and Ag waste.”

Bullock also announced funds to help Montanans stay in their homes.

“Montana Housing will pay the difference between 30 percent of the household’s gross monthly income and their eligible housing assistance costs, up to $2,000 a month,” he said. “Household income limits range from $75,000 to $125,000 based on family size.”

There are also grants for public health, food banks, nonprofits, and tele-work assistance.

For complete information on the programs and how to apply, click here. The application portal will go live on May 7.