NEW ALBANY, OH – The Facebook Data Center COVID Relief Fund was created to provide immediate grants to qualifying small businesses impacted by COVID-19. The New Albany Chamber of Commerce is proud to partner with Facebook and act as the fiscal agent for this fund, managing all contributions and grants. Facebook has provided $150,000 to start this fund which is open to additional contributions. A grant review committee will monitor the process of reviewing applications and awarding grants.
“New Albany is home to our data center, but more importantly to our employees and their families, so we are happy to partner with the New Albany Chamber of Commerce to assist local businesses during this difficult time,” said Amber Tillman, Community Development Regional Manager at Facebook. “Small businesses are the heart of our local economy and it is our hope that some financial relief from the impact of COVID-19 will be helpful.”
Eligible businesses may apply for a one-time grant up to $5,000. Eligibility criteria for profit businesses with 2-50 employees and a member of the New Albany Chamber of Commerce or willingly to join the chamber (entry-level annual membership dues are $200) upon receipt of a grant. Extra consideration will be given to small businesses that support New Albany community organizations and philanthropic causes.
The grant money can be used towards expenses such as lease, mortgage, payroll, utilities, supplies, or maintenance and repairs. Grant funds could be used for unforeseen expenses such as the cost of conversion of products or services to meet health and safety requirements, the purchase of safety supplies such as masks, hand sanitizer, safety barriers, signage, and items to enforce physical distancing.
Grant applications will be accepted Monday, May 18, 2020 through Friday, May 29, 2020 at https://newalbanychamber.com/fb-grant. Award recipients will be announced June 12, 2020.
For more information, please contact Cherie Nelson, Executive Director, New Albany Chamber, at (614) 855-4400 or cherie@newalbanychamber.com.