Brandon Economic Restart Program launched

The City of Brandon in partnership with the Brandon Chamber of Commerce is pleased to introduce the Brandon Economic Restart Program (BERP). Designed to stimulate investment in local businesses negatively impacted during the COVID-19 pandemic, BERP will position businesses to rebound and thrive as the economy begins to reopen.

Eligible Brandon businesses can apply for a one-time grant of up to $2,500. Applications will be evaluated on a first come, first served basis until the available funding is depleted. Business eligibility includes:

• Legally operating within the City of Brandon on or before July 12, 2020
• Be able to demonstrate that their net income has been negatively impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic
• Invest a minimum of 10% from their own funds toward the eligible investment

Government organizations, post-secondary institutions, health authorities, craft home-based businesses, or independent consultants are not eligible for this program.

Eligible investments include:

• Professional Services
• Marketing
• Technology Improvements
• Furniture & Equipment

Eligible investments must be made on or after July 13, 2021, up until December 31, 2021, with exceptions granted on a case-by-case basis via the City of Brandon’s Economic Development Department. Businesses can apply prior to making the investment or they can apply after the investment is made, understanding there is no guarantee of funding approval.

BERP grant applications will be evaluated in a two-phased approach. Applications must first meet both business and investment eligibility to be considered. Once both eligibilities have been approved, the next phase will be evaluated using the following evaluation criteria:

• Financial Need
• Likelihood Proposed Investment(s) Achieve Program Goals
• Level of Private Sector Financial Contributions
• Financial Investment Being Spent in Brandon Economy

Funded by the City of Brandon with a total of $250,000 allocated to BERP, the City’s Economic Development Department will administer the program with support from the Brandon Chamber of Commerce Business Recovery Taskforce. Further information including the Application Guide and Application Form can be found at Brandon Economic Restart Program (BERP) – Economic Development Brandon.

“I am very pleased that we are able to invest $250,000 to support our local businesses that have been so negatively impacted by the pandemic,” notes Mayor Rick Chrest. “Local businesses are the backbone of our community and economy. We hope this investment will help position our local businesses to rebound and thrive once again.”

(submitted)