Hurricane Helene Business Edge Fund

The NC Department of Commerce is providing funds that local workforce development boards may use to help businesses minimize the damage of layoffs caused by Hurricane Helene.  See press release here: NC Commerce Secretary Lilley Announces Grants to Workforce Boards to Support Businesses Impacted by Hurricane Helene.

Applications will be opening soon!  Please check back for additional information about applying!

Business Eligibility

• Eligible counties of the High Country region include Ashe, Avery, Mitchell, Watauga, and Yancey
• Have been in operation for at least two (2) years
• Have current Unemployment Insurance (UI) taxes
• Are in good standing with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), with no current tax liens
• Have a W-9 form, if applicable
• Have demonstrated a need for layoff aversion support

Allowable Uses

Funds must be used to mitigate layoffs, prevent closures, and reimburse costs that prevent a layoff or closure. Additionally, funds may be used to support employees returning to work after a layoff or closure. Requests must be reasonable, necessary, and directly related to the purpose of the Hurricane Helene Business Edge fund.

Funds may NOT be used for the following: products or services covered by insurance; hazard pay; rent; employee wages/benefits; supportive services such as childcare, transportation costs, lodging expenses, or meals; equipment that contributes to the capital assets (single items over $5,000) of a business; or improvements or upgrades that contribute to the capital assets of a business; or capitalization of businesses (for example, purchasing supplies or materials that will go into the final product sold or provided by the business).

Application Submission

Eligible businesses/CBOs should submit completed applications through their local WDB.  At a minimum, a completed application includes the following:

• The amount of funds requested and a brief itemized description of all costs;
• The number of employees affected and jobs saved through funding;
• The average salary of the affected employees;
• A brief profile of the business including name, address, and contact information;
• A brief narrative describing the layoff aversion plan and need for funds or a description of the services needed to develop a viable plan; and
• All supporting documentation.

Application Approval/Denial

Within two business days of receiving an application, the HCWDB will inform applicants, via email, that the application has been received, and if applicable, will request any additional documentation that is needed. Once all required documentation is submitted, the application will be processed, and a determination will be given as soon as possible.

Grant Agreement

Upon execution of the grant agreement, small businesses and/or CBOs shall submit an itemized invoice with all copies of receipts to the HCWDB, which will make direct reimbursement to the awardees. All associated costs must comply with the cost principles contained in2 CFR 200,Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards. Applicants are responsible for providing accurate and truthful information and documentation.

As the Hurricane Helene Business Edge Fund is federally funded, the US Department of Labor may conduct fiscal and/or programmatic monitoring of this initiative. Additionally, entities receiving an award may be subject to local, state, and federal monitoring and auditing.

Contact

For additional information, please contact Misty Bishop-Price at 828-265-5434, ext. 119 or Rebecca Bloomquist at 828-265-5434, ext. 136.