MADISON, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) – Restaurants, entertainment venues and hotels are among the businesses receiving coronavirus relief money, Gov. Tony Evers’ office announced on Thursday.
State officials say restaurants and other small businesses affected by the COVID-19 pandemic will receive $45 million in assistance. It’s part of the We’re All in for Restaurants grants.
“Restaurants and other venues have been among the businesses hit hardest by the COVID-19 pandemic,” Evers said in a news release. “They’ve made the tough decisions to keep employees and customers safe by restricting indoor seating, offering delivery and curbside pick-up, and providing outdoor tables. We greatly appreciate the changes they’ve made to prioritize the health and safety of our communities, but now with winter coming, we are glad to provide this support at a critical time.”
Unlike previous We’re All In grants, businesses will not have to apply for the grants, but will be identified and contacted directly by the state Department of Revenue based on the businesses’ state tax records. According to preliminary DOR estimates, restaurants will account for roughly 95% of the approximately 2,000 businesses to receive the funds. The program will target businesses with annual revenues of more than $1 million and less than $7 million.
Previous state grant programs have focused on businesses with annual revenues of less than $1 million.
Meanwhile, 663 lodging operators will receive more than $18 million in COVID-19 lodging grants. Those receiving grants will get about $350 per eligible room.
Also on Thursday, the state announced $15 million in COVID-19 Live Music and Entertainment Venue Grants to 96 venues. Eligible recipients are getting up to $500,000 or 25% of 2019 ticket or event sales, whichever was less.
Funding for the grants comes from the federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act, which expires on Dec. 31.
