A total of 177 farms and 159 food processors have been awarded $15 million in Michigan Agricultural Safety Grants to mitigate risks of the COVID-19 virus across the state’s food production industry. Additionally, 124 small farms of less than 10 employees received $567,000 in grants for COVID-19 risk mitigation through the MEDC Small Farm Safety Grants. Awarded on a first come, first serve basis the Michigan Agricultural Safety Grants helped to retain 26,003 jobs with 26 percent of grants being awarded in geographically disadvantaged areas. A full list of awardees for both programs is available at michiganbusiness.org/agsafety.

More than 11,637 small businesses and nonprofits across Michigan have been awarded $73.3 million in grants by local economic development organizations through the Michigan Small Business Restart Program. Approved in July, the program allocated $100 million of federal CARES Act funding to provide support to Michigan’s small businesses and nonprofits that are reopening and have experienced a loss of income as a result of the COVID-19 crisis. Grants awarded on September 10 have helped retain 72,950 jobs in the state and EDOs are meeting, or exceeding, requirements that 30 percent of grant funding be awarded to minority-owned, women-owned or veteran-owned businesses. All remaining grants were awarded by September 30, 2020 and will be reported by mid-October.

Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) Director Robert Gordon on October 5 issued an Emergency Order under MCL 333.2253 restricting gathering sizes, requiring face coverings in public spaces and placing limitations on bars and other venues. This order is effective immediately and remains in effect through Friday, Oct. 30.

Access additional COVID-19 resources for businesses and communities by visiting michiganbusiness.org/covid19.

Read more about programs supporting economic recovery for Michigan businesses by visiting michiganbusiness.org/covid19response.

Visit michigan.gov/coronavirus to find other valuable resources for employers, workers, residents and communities.