The Indiana House of Representatives on Tuesday voted in favor of legislation that would establish the Hoosier Hospitality Small Business Restart Grant Program, which would support Indiana’s jobs and economy, according to State Representative Jack Jordan (R-Bremen).
According to the Indiana Office of Tourism Development, the tourism industry employs more than 150,000 individuals and contributes roughly $9.3 billion to Indiana’s economy. A recent National Federation of Independent Business survey revealed small-business owners are worried about their business viability in 2021. He said under this bill he voted in favor of, struggling businesses experiencing significant losses due to the pandemic, like those in the tourism and hospitality industries, would be eligible to receive funding.
“The past year has been an incredibly challenging time for many of our small businesses, and this program can help them continue to keep their doors open and help Indiana’s economic recovery,” Jordan said. “Mom-and-pop shops are an important part of our community, from providing Hoosier jobs to offering quality goods and services – we want to see them succeed.”
Jordan said this grant program would be an extension of the already existing Small Business Restart Program and would continue to be administered by the Indiana Economic Development Corp. Small businesses that qualify could receive a grant to put toward a portion of business and payroll expenses. In addition to receiving state funding, the program could also receive contributions from federal grants, donations and other sources.
House Bill 1004 now heads to the Senate for further consideration. For more information, visit iga.in.gov.
