FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Thursday April 2, 2020
Crawford County Economic Development Corporation Launches Rapid Relief Fund
LEAVENWORTH, Ind. – Small businesses in Crawford County impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic now have the opportunity to receive financial assistance through CCEDC’s newly created Rapid Relief Fund. The purpose of the fund is to provide a small, low-interest loan infusion to help businesses address immediate needs. The organization says the loan program is intended to help Crawford County businesses with fewer than 30 employees offset losses caused by COVID-19. The CCEDC has partnered with Radius Indiana to increase the amount available so more businesses can benefit.
Michael Thissen, director of the CCEDC is leading the effort, “This fund is designed for our small businesses, and more to the point our chief industry in tourism and hospitality. The latest data shows that Crawford County will be negatively impacted in the recreation, tourism, dining and hospitality cluster. We want to do something that supports our businesses and help through the initial shock of loss and to provide something to bridge the gap so a smoother economic recovery can happen. We also understand the loss of employment and we hope the relief fund program will help in that area also.”
Morton Dale, Crawford County commissioner added that local support is critical for the counties economy, “We understand our small businesses are struggling right now, I have asked Michael and his team how economic development can help. Michael has not only been able to look at our strategic funding, but he also leveraged that funding with our regional partner, Radius Indiana to provide twice as much impact and relief for our businesses. I am very proud o his work and his care for our economy and people.”
The loan is receiving a dollar for dollar match through regional economic development partner Radius Indiana.
“Radius has seen the local economic development groups in our region, like the Crawford County Economic Development Corp., really go all out to support their local businesses during the COVID-19 era, and we’re glad we have a way to be a partner in their efforts. This loan program will hopefully put some much-needed capital in the pockets of the local businesses who are such an important part of their local communities in Marengo, English, Leavenworth, and elsewhere,” said Jeff Quyle, president and CEO of Radius Indiana.
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For more information about Radius Indiana visit: radiusindiana.com/