The application period will run through August 5, 2020 and all eligible applications received during that three-week period will receive consideration.

Applications are now being accepted for the Michigan Agricultural Safety Grant Program. A total of $10 million in grants will be available to processors statewide, with $5 million going to farms statewide to mitigate risks of the COVID-19 virus across the state’s food production industry. Michigan’s food processors can apply for grants of $10,000 up to $200,000, and farms may apply for grants of $10,000 up to $50,000 to help cover costs associated with testing, PPE, employee training, increased sanitation measures and temporary housing solutions to ensure social distancing.

The State of Michigan has appropriated $15 million of federal CARES Act funding to implement the Michigan Agricultural Safety Grant Program, with funding awarded on a first come, first serve basis to eligible applicants.

From expanded carryout menus to carving out physical space to allow for additional patrons, Michigan restaurants and communities have pivoted and innovated in the wake of COVID-19. Hear from restaurateurs and communities about how they created new sources of revenue while complying with safety and social distance guidelines – and learn what’s on the horizon for the Michigan restaurant industry. Join the MEDC and Crain’s Detroit Business for a free webcast on July 29 at 12 p.m. ET.

To further protect workers and the community, Governor Whitmer’s Executive Order 2020-147 announced last week reiterates that businesses who are open to the public must refuse entry and service to individuals who fail to comply with wearing a face covering. The Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity (LEO) has provided a toolkit to help businesses protect their workers and the public while remaining safely open. LEO and the Michigan Occupational Safety and Health Administration (MIOSHA) have a set of online resources at Michigan.gov/COVIDWorkplaceSafety that provides guidelines, posters for employees and customers, factsheets, educational videos and a reopening checklist to keep workplaces safe.

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.