FREDERICK, Md. – Frederick County restaurants and food service businesses are being offered a second round of grants to support the hard-hit industry. County Executive Jan Gardner announced that an additional $1.3 million would be distributed this month. Food service businesses that received funding in the first round will automatically receive a second grant. Those that did not receive funds in the fall may apply now through 3 p.m. Wednesday, January 13.
Grants will be awarded in two categories. The first category includes commercially located bakeries and caterers, carry-out restaurants that have no seating, and food trucks. The second group includes restaurants without drive-thrus, and wineries, breweries, and distilleries. The amount of each grant will be determined by the number of establishments that apply. All eligible businesses in a given category will receive the same amount of funding.
To be eligible, the business must be located in Frederick County; be in good standing with the County and the State of Maryland; and possess a current food license from the Frederick County Health Department, or in the case of craft beverage manufacturers, possess a liquor license from the Frederick County Liquor Board.
Grant funds can be used to pay for:
- Working capital, such as rent, payroll, and job training
- Purchase of equipment and services to expand outdoor dining, such as tents, heaters, warmers, and carts
- Infrastructure improvements, such as HVAC system upgrades
- Technology to support carryout and delivery
- Purchase of PPE and disposable food containers and utensils
- Sanitization services
Additional information about the grants can be found at FrederickCountyMD.gov/8155-Frederick-County-Business-Grants. Applications can be made at www.FrederickCountyMD.gov/FoodServiceGrants. Applications will be accepted until 3 p.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 13. Questions about the grant program can be emailed to the Office of Economic Development at OED@FrederickCountyMD.gov.
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