Greater Grays Harbor, Inc. (GGHI) has completed the distribution of the local funds from the second round of the Governor’s Working Washington Small Business emergency grant program. This effort is part of a statewide initiative to provide emergency grants to small businesses impacted by COVID-19. $10 Million in business relief grants were awarded statewide, with $151,277 making its way primarily to Grays Harbor businesses, but also to local agencies engaged in economic development activities that may have been overlooked by other relief funding programs.

In total, 27 Grays Harbor businesses and 4 Grays Harbor economic development stakeholder partners were funded, with an average grant award of $4,579.80. Funds can be used to cover costs including rent, utilities, supplies, inventory, and other operating expenses incurred as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Businesses funded include local restaurants, childcare centers, fishing vessels, retail businesses, fitness centers and others throughout Aberdeen, Hoquiam, Cosmopolis, Ocean Shores, Westport, Montesano, and Elma.  Economic development stakeholder partners funded included local chambers, business associations, and tourism organizations.

“We are thankful to the Washington State Department of Commerce for their quick work in creating these programs so that we can get these funds to some of our region’s most distressed businesses,” said GGHI CEO Lynnette Buffington. “GGHI will continue to advocate for effective relief packages that support both the retention of our local businesses and the jobs associated with those employers.”

A third round of Working Washington grants open today, Tuesday, December 1. Businesses impacted by COVID-19 and having annual revenues less than $5 Million can apply to receive a grant award up to $20,000. Priority will be given to applications received before December 10. Visit the Washington Department of Commerce website for more details and to apply.

GGHI Contact

Lynnette Buffington, CEO

Greater Grays Harbor, Inc.

lbuffington@graysharbor.org