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NLEA | January News – Round 3 of the CARES Act applications open

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NLEA News Jan 2021

 
Apply for the Michigan Small Business Survival Grant
MSBRP Grants progress
The State of Michigan has allocated $55 million to implement the Michigan Small Business Survival Grant Program to support the needs of Michigan businesses that have been disproportionately impacted by the COVID-19 virus and the Gatherings and Mask Order. The application to apply will open at 9:00 a.m. EST on Tuesday, January 19, 2021 and go through 12:00 PM January 22. Apply here.
 
Eligibility to apply:
  • Had 1 to 100 employees (including full-time, part-time and owner/employees) on a world-wide basis on November 17, 2020.
  • Is in an industry that demonstrates it is affected by the Order. (Learn which industries here)
  • Needs working capital to support payroll expenses, rent, mortgage payments, utility expenses, or other similar expenses.
  • Demonstrates an income loss as a result of the Order as determined by the EDO in which an eligible business is located.
  • Is not a live music and entertainment venue that is eligible for funds under Section 401 of Public Act 257 of 2020: Michigan Stages Survival Grant Program.
 
Grants for up to $20K for totally closed businesses and $15K for partially closed.
 
Is your community ready for what’s next?
Boyne City downtown January
 
One thing COVID-19 has thought us is we cannot be too prepared, is your community prepared for what is next? Michigan communities can participate in the Redevelopment Ready Communities (RRC) program. This is a free state-wide certification program that supports local units of government to become development ready and competitive in today’s economy. It encourages communities to adopt innovative redevelopment strategies and efficient processes that integrate transparency, predictability and efficiency into their daily practices building confidence among business and developers.
 
The City of Boyne City was one of the first RRC Certified Communities in the state and is the 2020 Great American Main Street Award winner. Check out this YouTube video showcasing the community.
 
Through this program, the municipality will evaluate themselves in six key areas. Once the community completes the self-evaluations, passes a resolution, and attends a mandatory training they will be eligible to submit an application and become formally engaged in the program.
 
Details and application process available at northernlakes.net
 
Groups seek solutions to housing challenges
 
By Ryan Bentley, published in Petoskey News Review Dec. 30, 2020
The housing affordability and availability challenges facing northwest Michigan stem from more than just a single factor.
 
As staff members for organizations aiming to help address those challenges see it, successful solutions will also require a mix of strategies and contributors to achieve.
 
“We need to convince all stakeholders that everybody needs to have some skin in this game,” said Steve Schnell, program director for Charlevoix County Housing Ready.
 
Observers see the region’s housing affordability challenges affecting more than just citizens in low income ranges, extending to some middle-class occupations as well. They also see supply tightness limiting options for a wide range of housing types. As previously reported by the News-Review, a variety of employers see the housing issues posing a challenge for recruiting employees and maintaining necessary staffing levels.
 
 
Want to get involved with solutions? Visit www.homeforourfuture.org
 
The next best thing to being on the farm!
Goats at MSU Tollgate Farm
 
Virtual, hybrid and homeschooled students in grades 4-8: Registration is now open for the MSU Tollgate Farm Virtual Vet Science Interactive Series February 1- 5, 2021. Spend time exploring the MSU Tollgate barn and pastures virtually as you investigate vet science and animal care. Get to know the MSU Tollgate animals as you experience the care of our livestock up close and personal.
 
Explore the five freedoms, engage in STEM challenges, and learn about veterinary tools & technology. Interactive real time sessions with MSU Extension Animal Science educators, MSU Tollgate Farm staff, and visiting vets complement investigations and activities.
 
Grants workshop for public outdoor recreation

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