OCRA grants will aid small businesses

More than $650,000 in COVID-19 relief should soon be headed toward Putnam County small businesses.

The Indiana Office of Community and Rural Affairs (OCRA) recently awarded three grants to local governments — $250,000 to Putnam County, $250,000 to the City of Greencastle and $153,840 to the Town of Bainbridge.

These entities, in turn, will give grants to businesses with 25 employees or fewer that were negatively impacted during the period of September through November 2020.

Maximum grant for each business could be up to $10,000 dependent upon number of applications received.’

Local officials expressed their gratitude at being able to assist businesses in the communities they serve.

Greencastle had previously applied, and Mayor Bill Dory was pleased with the outcome in the third round of funding.

“It took us a couple tries, but we appreciate the support of the state in helping our small business community,” Dory said. “We appreciate all the local folks who helped pull this together and participated in supporting the application.”

This was the county’s first application, which Putnam County Commissioners President Rick Woodall said he regretted.

“I was just glad that there was another round that came about that we were able to apply for because there are people who are struggling that we want to help,” Woodall said. “I just hope we’re able to find those people.”

Bainbridge Town Council President Jeff Kiger was also pleased with the chance to help the town.

“I think it’s a wonderful thing for the small business in Bainbridge and it will help to retain employees and keep the businesses running.”

While Bainbridge officials have already taken their maximum number of applications, the county and city are still seeking applicants in the coming weeks.

Eligible for-profit businesses can be sole proprietorships, corporate franchises, LLCs, corporations and independent contractors. Non-profit businesses are not eligible.

Those interested may contact Grant Administrator Kristy Jerrell at jerrellconsulting@outlook.com or 812-878-0826 to receive information, discuss the application process and to obtain the application packet.

Application packets may also be picked up at the following locations:

• Greencastle City Hall, 1 N. Locust St., for business located within Greencastle city limits.

• Putnam County Auditor’s Office, 1 Courthouse Square, Suite 20, for businesses located within Putnam County but outside city limits.

Any interested businesses may also contact Jerrell or Greencastle/Putnam County Development Director Kristin Clary at kristin@gcpcdc.com or 653-2474.

Application packets are due no later than Monday, May 10 by 3 p.m. and should be emailed to jerrellconsulting@outlook.com or dropped off at Greencastle City Hall, the Putnam County Auditor’s Office or the Development Center, 915 S. Zinc Mill Rd., on the Ivy Tech - Greencastle campus.