Delaware County Economic Development Corp. Promotes Grant Opportunities for Delaware County Small Businesses to Support Environmental Initiatives
[Delaware County, PA] – Delaware County EDC encourages established local for-profit small businesses with 100 or less employees to apply for the 2024 Small Business Advantage Grant. With at least $1 million in available funding from the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, this grant program aims to empower small businesses across Delaware County and Pennsylvania to undertake projects that improve energy efficiency, reduce pollution, and protect waterways—benefiting both businesses and the environment.
“The Small Business Advantage Grant is an incredible program which allows small businesses to upgrade existing infrastructure and be proactive against rising energy costs, without breaking the bank. Sustainability is about creating balance with people, planet, and prosperity, and the Small Business Advantage Grant is an incredible tool for helping Delaware County’s small businesses hit that target,” said Rebecca Yurkovich, Interim Chief Sustainability Officer, Delaware County Office of Sustainability.
Eligible projects can receive up to 50% of the project cost through this grant program, with enhanced funding available for businesses located in Environmental Justice areas or for projects that result in significant environmental impact. Grant funding is awarded on a first-come, first-served basis, so interested for-profit business applicants should begin to work on applications promptly.
“We’re looking forward to helping Delaware County’s small businesses access these funds to make impactful changes for their operations, help to save business owners money, and our improve our environment,” said Laura Goodrich Cairns, Executive Director of Delco EDC. “By participating in this grant program, our local businesses have an opportunity to upgrade their equipment while reducing their carbon footprint, enhance sustainability, and support a healthier community—all while potentially saving on energy costs.
The maximum grant awards are as follows:
· All Eligible Projects: Up to 50% of project costs, or $7,500, whichever is less
· Eligible Projects in Environmental Justice Areas: Up to 65% of project costs, or $9,750
· Projects with Significant Environmental Impact: Up to 65% of project costs, or $9,750
· Projects in Environmental Justice Areas with Significant Impact: Up to 80% of project costs, or $12,000
For more details on financing, please visit: dep.pa.gov/Citizens/GrantsLoansRebates/SmallBusinessOmbudsmanOffice
Common projects include upgrading lighting, HVAC, boiler, and digital x-ray machines. But any project that will save the small business at least 20% annually in energy consumption or pollution prevention related expenses may be eligible.
Delco EDC is committed to supporting our business community every step of the way in securing these valuable resources, and our financial services team is available to help. The process to access this grant funding requires pre-approval from Pennsylvania Department of Enivronmental Protection. That approval can also be used to secure a low-interest loan with a 2% interest rate to finance additional costs of a business project. Therefore, we recommend any Delaware County for-profit small business that is interested in these grant and loan products start by reaching out to us.
Use the link below to complete the Financial Inquiry Form and get started today: Delaware County Economic Development Corporation Financial Inquiry Form
About the Delaware County Commerce Center: The Delaware County Commerce Center is dedicated to fostering economic growth and development throughout Delaware County. By providing resources, support, and strategic direction, the Commerce Center plays a pivotal role in driving the economic prosperity of the region.
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