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Whitley County businesses can apply for funding to support changes made during the pandemic. The Indiana Office of Rural and Community Affairs (OCRA) awarded Whitley County $250,000 in funds to help businesses remain sustainable in the changing environment.

“Loans can be used for nearly anything business-related. If the money can support a change in operations, in any manner, it’s the hope that businesses will apply. Even putting up plexiglass, or shifting to online platforms, funds can be used. Funding cannot be used for construction, façade, or nonprofit businesses. If you’re unsure, contact the office, we’re happy to help.”

Dale buuck, president of the whitley county economic development corporation

      “Loans can be used for nearly anything business-related. If the money can support a change in operations, in any manner, it’s the hope that businesses will apply. Even putting up plexiglass, or shifting to online platforms, funds can be used. Funding cannot be used for construction, façade, or nonprofit businesses. If you’re unsure, contact the office, we’re happy to help,” said Dale Buuck, Whitley EDC president.
     The loans are available to for-profit businesses with 100 or fewer employees and for-profit micro-entities, which are businesses with five or fewer employees where the business owner is also on payroll.
     The loans have a three-year term with a 2% interest and opportunities to defer interest or become forgivable after the first two years.
      OCRA awarded the funds to Whitley County through collaboration with the Whitley County Commissioners, Columbia City Government and Columbia City Connect.
      To begin the funding application process or for more information, call the Whitley EDC office at 260.244.5506 or email edc@whilteyedc.com.