Grant Funds Available for Businesses Strained by Holiday Farm Fire
Businesses negatively impacted by 2020’s Holiday Farm Fire have a new funding opportunity to help restore their operations.
“The Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce is honored to receive a $20,000 grant provided by the OCCU Foundation to help restore, rebuild, and return hope to businesses impacted by the Holiday Farm Fire,” said Chamber President and CEO Vonnie Mikkelsen.
Due to the lengthy processes and competition for other funding, the Chamber is welcoming applications for micro-grants to provide the gap funding necessary to meet the immediate needs of businesses affected by the Holiday Farm Fire.
Requests ranging from $500 to $1,500 can be made for general operation costs, small business repairs, or other business-related expenses. Applications will be reviewed by a Steering Committee. Requests for more than $1,500 will be considered if to serve the community beyond that of the applicant’s own benefit.
According to the Chamber’s economic development specialist, Danielle Thompson, the Chamber will open the application process from August 30th to October 11th. To apply, click here or visit https://www.springfield-chamber.org/wildfire-relief-grants/.
“The businesses and residents up the McKenzie River have been through so much and getting funding for major repairs or rebuilding from government agencies or insurance companies can take a painfully long time,” Thompson acknowledged. “These funds are intended to help bridge the waiting period and help businesses in varying degrees of distress find hope while keeping things moving forward.”
About OCCU Foundation (OCCUF)
OCCU Foundation (OCCUF) is the philanthropic arm of OCCU (Oregon Community Credit Union). Since its start in 2018, OCCUF has granted more than $1 million to help build happier and healthier communities by giving generously to projects that enrich lives, advance learning, improve well-being, and support communities. The foundation is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) corporation funded by OCCU, businesses, families, and individuals. To learn more, visit MyOCCU.org/Foundation.
About the Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce
The Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce is a 501 (c) 6 non-profit association comprised of private, public, and non-profit organizations in the Springfield, Eugene, and surrounding communities. The Chamber offers programs and services to strengthen, represent, and promote business throughout the region. For more information about how to join or volunteer for the Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce, visit www.springfield-chamber.org or call 541-746-1651.
