SALISBURY, Md – Governor Wes Moore today announced open applications for two additional economic relief programs to support workers and businesses affected by the Key Bridge collapse. The programs, which were created under Governor Moore’s executive order signed April 5 and went live yesterday, provide temporary relief to impacted businesses through the Maryland Department of Labor, Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development, and Maryland Department of Commerce.
“We are working together to support everyone affected by the economic consequences of the Key Bridge collapse – from workers to businesses to entrepreneurs,” said Gov. Moore. “These relief programs extend a lifeline to the people and places touched by this tragedy. Moving in partnership, we will continue to offer stability, certainty, and support to Marylanders as they navigate the challenges of this moment.”
The Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development’s $5 million Neighborhood BusinessWorks small business grant program will provide businesses with grants of up to $50,000; the $10 million no-interest loan program offers loans of up to $500,000. Eligibility and program information are available on the department’s website. Applications for both programs will be awarded on a first-come, first-served basis.
“Since the minutes after the Key Bridge collapse, the Moore-Miller Administration has sought to be here for all who are affected. As stewards of economic resilience and community well-being, the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development is focused on providing support to the small businesses that are affected by the Key Bridge collapse,” said Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development Secretary Jake Day. “Through collaboration with our agency partners, we are dedicated to providing timely assistance to ensure communities and neighborhoods are supported and can continue to contribute to our state’s economy.”
Industries most impacted on the eastern shore have included agriculture and health care, with business leaders explaining that more equipment may have to be imported from overseas to fill in the gaps according to Salisbury Area Chamber of Commerce President Bill Chambers.
“It’s going to cost the state hundreds of millions in lost tax revenues and revenues to businesses. So I think what the governor did was about the only you could do in a year to extend these timelines. so we need to keep these businesses going,” Chambers said.
Those looking to check eligibility can visit the state disaster response website.