PRESS RELEASE

Chicopee Emergency Business Assistance Fund Receives Strong Response

CHICOPEE – Response to the City’s initial Emergency Business Assistance Fund of $150,000 has been strong. Over twenty small businesses have applied for funding to support ongoing operations since the program was launched on March 25, 2020.   The Emergency fund is intended to provide immediate short-term operating assistance to Chicopee small businesses impacted by COVID-19.  The grant application is posted on the Community Development Departments page at https://www.chicopeema.gov/187/Community-Development. 

“I am pleased that we were able to gain HUD approval of our program and mobilize quickly,” stated Mayor John L. Vieau. “I am especially pleased that the first few businesses will be receiving their grant funds in the next few days.”

The City received formal notice from the US Department of Housing and Urban Development that it will receive an additional $706,467 in Community Development Block Grant COVID (CDBG-CV) funds.  To gain access to this new pool of funds, the City must develop a plan on the proposed use of funds, solicit public comment, and gain HUD approval.  The City plans to allocate the bulk of CBDG-CV funds to Business Assistance ($625,000). Additionally, $75,000 will be allocated to support essential programs such as food pantry and meal programs.  

“The CDBG-CV business funding will not only support our existing program but also provide funding for businesses as they are able to reopen,” stated Mayor Vieau.

Public Comment on the CDBG-CV plan can be submitted to the Office of Community Development by phone 413-594-1490 or electronically - jdias@chicopeema.gov

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