Carbon Co. eligible for Main Street grants through Greater Lehigh chamber

Carbon Chamber & Economic Development Corp., is reminding economic development professionals in the county that they are eligible for 2020 Main Street Lehigh Valley Grants from the Greater Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce Foundation.

To keep with the chamber’s goal of urban revitalization, the grants can go towards projects that visually enhance downtowns and surrounding neighborhoods. Now in its 13th year, the program is accepting applications through May 31.

Organizations eligible to apply include counties, cities, boroughs, townships; municipal and redevelopment authorities and agencies, and nonprofit 501c3 organizations.

“Projects should meet one or more of the following: be visible within the community; show partnership or collaboration with others; support business retention or expansion; are consistent with the local revitalization strategy; demonstrate geographic diversity; improve existing or develop new facilities; leave a lasting impact in the community,” according to the foundation.

Projects accepted for grants must be completed between July 1, and June 30, 2021.

Organizations must provide at least a 50% match in funds. For example, if $2,000 is requested, an organization must show that it spent at least $4,000 on the project. The foundation noted that $2,000 is the maximum amount an organization can apply for.

Grants will be awarded competitively, and amounts will be based on the number of applications.

For more information, go to CarbonCountyChamber.org