COLUMBUS, Ohio — Ohio’s Department of Development issued a reminder to state’s businesses this week that millions of dollars in grants are available. 


What You Need To Know

  • The state put out a reminder that $200 million remains in business grants

  • The grants awards business with $10,000, $20,000 or $30,000 depending on money lost in 2020

  • The largest pot of money is set aside for restaurant and business establishments

  • Grants can be used for a number of expenses including wages, utilities or personal protective equipment

In total, there remains $200 million in funds for Ohio businesses, the majority of which is set aside for restaurant and beverage facilities. 

The Department of Development said that more than $120 million remains in the state’s food and beverage establishment grant out of $200 million allocated. Out of $50 million allocated, the state has awarded $13.6 million in the state’s lodging grant. 

The state says that $26 million in entertainment venue grants remain available out of $40 million allocated. There is also $12.8 million remaining out of $20 million allocated for new small businesses. 

“Ohio’s economy is coming back strong, and these grants can help ensure that businesses in hard-hit sectors benefit from our resurgence,” said Gov. Mike DeWine. “These businesses are an essential part of our state, and we want to make sure they continue to open their doors to Ohioans.”

New small businesses can apply for $10,000 grants while the other grants are for $10,000, $20,000 or $30,000. The size of the grants are determined by the amount of lost revenue by businesses during 2020.

The grants can be used for the following:

  • Personal protective equipment to protect employees, customers, or clients from COVID-19
  • Measures taken to protect employees, customers or clients from COVID-19
  • Utility payments
  • Mortgage or rent payments for business premises (personal residences explicitly excluded)
  • Salaries, wages, or compensation paid to contractors or employees, including an employer’s share of health insurance costs
  • Business supplies or equipment