Back to Business grant program application process available online

Mississippi is opening a grant program for small businesses affected by the coronavirus pandemic.

Governor Tate Reeves says the application process began at noon today. The grants can cover mortgage interest, rent, payroll, utilities, and other expenses related to the pandemic. They cannot cover the business’ lost profits.

The grants are funded by the Federal Coronavirus Relief Program. It’s a program funded through the Cares Act where small businesses can be reimbursed for up to $25,000 of expenses related to COVID-19.

Brandon Atwell, one of the owners of Murkey Waters Barbecue, tells News 25 financial support and the support of the community have kept his business afloat during these unprecedented times. “We’ve worked this business up for seven years now. We’ve been through hurricanes and the BP oil spill and we’ve been through all kinds of adversity. To be taken down by the coronavirus, it was gonna be an awful blow. So, we are glad the government is stepping in.”

Governor Reeves says the grant is only for small businesses with less than 50 employees. No major corporations will be allowed to take part.

You can go to backtobusinessms.org for more information.