The “Wilco Forward Small Business Grant Program”, which was launched in response to the economic hardships caused to businesses by COVID-19, has issued 3662 checks for a total of more than $34.2-million, the county says.
4194 applications were submitted between May 6 and June 30. The vast majority were approved, and of the 466 that were not, the County Auditor’s Office says most were denied because a business had submitted duplicate applications. 66 applications remain under review. The average grant paid to Williamson County businesses has been $9350.54.
Out of $93-million Williamson County received from the federal CARES Act, $35-million was allocated for Wilco Forward. The remainder of the money will be utilized in phases. the county says.
“Our small business owners are a vital part of our community and the backbone of our economy, that is why the success of the Wilco Forward program was crucial to providing funds that would help them stay in business. It is also important that we provide short term support for those that have lost their jobs due to COVID-19 by providing assistance for rent and utilities,” said Williamson County Precinct 3 Commissioner Valerie Covey.
Phase II includes reimbursing cities, the Williamson County and Cities Health District, Emergency Service Districts, Bluebonnet Trails, and YMCA for COVID-19 response expenses.
Phase III, which County Commissioners are expected to vote on before the end of the month, will focus on a community assistance program to be rolled out through local non-profits, such as the Round Rock Area Serving Center, The Caring Place, and The Salvation Army. The goal is to provide a level of financial relief to residents by supporting them with bills like rent and utilities. A total of $5 million has been allocated for the third phas.
