A $1-million grant program has been approved for local nonprofits impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Applications are now being accepted for the Local Emergency Assistance for Non-profits (LEAN) grant program.
The money was reallocated from the Blueprint infrastructure program and activated by the Blueprint Intergovernmental Agency Board, comprised of Leon County and Tallahassee Commissioners.
Grants will be administered by the Tallahassee-Leon County Office of Economic Vitality. Applicants can receive a $2,500 award on a first come, first served basis. Eligible non-profits include human services, cultural arts, and historical organizations.
“Although there is assistance at the federal level, that process takes time and our nonprofits need immediate assistance to help them keep their doors open, said City Commissioner Elaine Bryant, vice chair of the Blueprint Intergovernmental Agency. She says the infusion of cash will provide support to a vital sector of the community.
The deadline to apply is May 15th -- or sooner if all funds have been disbursed. Non-profits receiving grant approval should expect to receive payment approximately 10-12 business days after submitting the necessary forms.
This is similar to a million-dollar program that granted three tiers of awards to local businesses based on the number of employees. Those funds were quickly doled out, so the Blueprint board voted this week to award grants to an additional 71 local businesses that were initially unable to get help. An additional $124,500 will be awarded to these small businesses.