Governor Larry Hogan announced awards for 376 businesses through Project Restore, an economic recovery initiative that provides financial incentives for small businesses to revitalize vacant retail and commercial spaces. 80% of the businesses awarded were minority owned businesses, and more than 2,500 jobs were created.
Project Restore was launched by the governor last year, and is administered by the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD). Through Project Restore, the department offers property assistance and operational grants to support startup and expansion costs and incentivize private investment in vacant spaces.
Of those awarded, 16 businesses were located in Frederick County.