The Greater Eastern Oregon Development Corporation has $370,000 available to support small businesses in its coverage area.

The money comes from Business Oregon, which approved $5 million statewide in the second round of grants through the Emergency Business Assistance Grant Fund to help businesses that have been impacted by COVID-19 but have not received federal CARES Act funding.

According to a news release, businesses with fewer than 25 employees are eligible, including sole proprietors, and “historically disadvantaged” business owners are encouraged to apply. They may use the proceeds for any business-related operating expense, including the the costs associated with reopening while complying with additional state guidelines for COVID-19.

GEODC Executive Director Susan Christensen said in a statement that the grant funds “will support women, minority, disadvantaged, and sole proprietor businesses as they make their comeback.”

The $370,000 is divided between the seven counties GEODC covers. Umatilla County has $200,000 allotted, and $30,000 is available to Morrow County businesses.

— Hermiston Herald