Retail Association of Maine & Maine Grocers and Food Producers Association Launch Maine Business Relief Fund Aiding Small Businesses Affected by Recent Storm
Augusta, ME (January 2, 2024)— In the wake of December 18th’s devastating storm, affectionately dubbed the "Grinch," the Retail Association of Maine (RAM) and the Maine Grocers and Food Producers Association (MGFPA) are taking proactive steps to support the numerous businesses affected across the state. The storm brought severe flooding, road washouts, and prolonged power outages, resulting in substantial losses for retailers, grocers, restaurants, and other small enterprises.
Inspired by the successful relief efforts in Vermont following a similar catastrophe, RAM and MGFPA are proud to announce the launch of the Maine Business Relief Fund. This initiative aims to provide crucial financial assistance to Maine's small businesses in their recovery from the storm's impact. The fund will offer grants ranging from $2,500 to $10,000 to cover expenses such as equipment replacement, operating expenses, supplies, and assistance with cleanup, etc. The goal is to help meet immediate needs until further support is available.
“Maine’s retailers and small businesses have been through a lot for a few years now, but a storm like this during the final week of holiday sales was an incredible blow to many of our small businesses. It is our hope that the Maine Business Relief Fund will help provide some necessary support to help clean up, replenish lost inventory, and help get them back on track in 2024,” stated Curtis Picard, President and CEO of the Retail Association of Maine.
Program Highlights:
Modeled after Vermont's relief program, which raised $800,000 and distributed grants of up to $10,000 to impacted businesses.
Businesses will be eligible for financial grants of up to $10,000 as early as January 2024.
Applications will open January 4, 2024 at 10 AM through January 31, 2024.
To apply for financial relief and to learn more visit: https://lnkd.in/eGsySaCz
Regional Sales Manager
3moThis is awesome!! Thanks for making a change where it’s needed.