WEST PLAINS, MO – Applications are now open for the CARES Act Grant Relief Program for small businesses. The program was established by the Howell County Commission, which has partnered with the Ozarks Small Business Incubator (OzSBI) to serve as the grant administrator for the funds. Many businesses in the county will likely qualify for reimbursement through this grant, and the Howell County Commission and OzSBI encourage any and all interested parties to apply.
OzSBI and the Missouri SBDC will host a free informational webinar open to the public on today (October 8) at 2:00 pm. The webinar will include an overview of the application process, highlight eligible expenses, and answer questions from participants. Registration details and more information about the grant are available at www.ozsbi.com/hocomocares
To be eligible, businesses must: be a for-profit, independently-owned business or independently-operated franchise geographically located within Howell County, have 500 or fewer employees, possess valid city, county, and state licensure to operate, and be in operation prior to March 1, 2020. Eligible applicant businesses must also provide proof of a business hardship created by COVID-19.
The Ozarks Small Business Incubator will accept applications and review them for completeness and adherence to CARES Act guidelines and related guidance from the US Treasury. After review by the Howell County Commissioners, applicant will receive a Notice of Decision signed by the County Commission reflecting whether the request was approved, denied or partially funded. The Ozarks Small Business Incubator will facilitate the signing of the agreements and disbursement of grant awards.
To apply, applicants should access the Howell County CARES Small Business Relief Program Application online at https://ozsbi.com/hocomocares. Detailed application instructions, a FAQ, and a list of required supporting documentation are posted with the application. Applicants are required to submit completed applications and documentation either in-person or by mail to OzSBI. OzSBI is located at 408 Washington Ave. in downtown West Plains. Hours for drop-off are 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. Mailed applications may be sent to:
Ozarks Small Business Incubator (OzSBI)
408 Washington Ave.
West Plains, MO 65775
Program funds will be allocated to eligible businesses based on availability. All applications will be processed on a first-come, first-review basis. All applications must be received by OzSBI by December 11, 2020 for consideration.
Questions regarding the Howell County CARES Small Business Relief Program application process may be directed to Autumn Shirley, Grant Administrator by email at hocomocares@ozsbi.com or by phone at 417-256-9724.
