The City of Michigan City and Economic Development Corporation Michigan City teams are launching a Small Business Assistance Grant Program.

The grant program is supported by the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 that seeks to propel forward those negatively impacted by the continuing effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Grants will be available in the range of $5,000 to $25,000 per qualified business for funds invested in required arenas, such as infrastructure, equipment, employee payroll, utility or operating costs, rent or mortgage expenses, marketing and advertising and physical improvements.

Applicants must meet criteria, including being located in Michigan City municipal boundaries, have been in business before March 1, 2020, have employees at 25 or fewer at full-time status and demonstrate economic hardship. The application and criteria specifics are available at https://edcmc.com/arpa-small-business-grant/.