Gov. Kate Brown Is Setting Aside $55 Million in Financial Assistance for Small Businesses

Oregon small businesses can soon apply for an additional round of funding in response to the coronavirus pandemic. The state will set aside an additional $55 million for businesses struggling with the financial hardship related to COVID-19, Gov. Kate Brown announced today.

The decision comes one day before a new round of safety restrictions go into effect, shutting down onsite dining at restaurants and bars, closing museums and fitness centers, and limiting social interactions between households. The statewide restrictions will remain in effect for at least two weeks, though they could be extended in the near future; Multnomah County will remain under this executive order for four weeks.

The state will allocate $500,000 to each county, with additional funding set aside based on population. Those counties, then, will determine how and when people should apply for grants. A press release from the Governor’s office says the funding will be distributed “with a priority for the hospitality industry, businesses impacted by the freeze, small businesses, and women, Black, Indigenous, People of Color, and Tribal-owned businesses.” It’s unclear how Multnomah County will approach these new funds or the application process; Eater Portland has reached out to a county spokesperson for comment. This story will be updated with more information once it becomes available.

• Governor Kate Brown Announces $55 Million in Financial Assistance to Support Oregon Businesses [Official]
• Oregon Pauses Indoor and Outdoor Dining at Restaurants and Bars for at Least Two Weeks [EPDX]
• Oregon Restaurants Call for Immediate Protections and Financial Relief Ahead of Another Shutdown [EPDX]