Financial assistance is available for local small businesses that have been affected by the coronavirus.

One-time grants of up to $2,000 are available to for-profit small businesses with fewer than 50 employees under a program established by Isle of Wight County, Smithfield and Windsor that is fully funded by the federal CARES Act.

Eligibility for the program expanded as of July 16 to allow more businesses affected by provisions of Gov. Ralph Northam’s stay-at-home executive orders to apply. Grant funding will be awarded on a first-come, first-served basis to businesses that submit completed applications and supporting documentation. Businesses that have already applied do not need to reapply.

Brick and mortar and home-based businesses are encouraged to apply, according to the Isle of Wight Economic Development Department, which is managing the program. The application period closes when all the program’s funding is disbursed.

For more information, contact Economic Development Coordinator Nicole Talton at 757-365-6251 or email iowgrant@iwus.net.