WKCTC part of team for economic stimulus program for local businesses

Paducah, KY (04/02/2020) — West Kentucky Community and Technical College has joined the City of Paducah and the Community Foundation of West Kentucky in Paducah's Small Business Relief Fund Program.

"Mayor Brandi Harless recently asked me if the college would be interested in partnering in the program," Kevin O'Neill, vice president of regional workforce training and economic development. "I immediately said yes."

WKCTC's Allison Smith, business administration and logistics program coordinator, grant writer Rayla Trigg and O'Neill are working together to review the Small Business Relief Fund applications using a rubric developed by the city to ensure applicants meet the criteria for funding.

"With our recently opened Business Immersion Center, this is a great opportunity to help the city do what our talented faculty and staff do best, and also aligns with our mission of cultivating community partnerships and advancing economic development," said O'Neill. "We appreciate being part of this important process for our local small business owners."

Small businesses that are not a franchise or franchise-affiliated, with 25 or fewer employees and a brick-and-mortar presence within the Paducah city limits may be eligible to apply for the funds. During this first round of funding, the first 75 eligible businesses will receive grants of $2000 each. The funds must be used for expenses limited to rent, mortgage, payroll, and utilities. Applications for the Small Business Relief Fun are being accepted through April 10 at 4:30 p.m. The application includes all of the guidelines and can be accessed at paducahky.gov/news/covid-19-resources-and-information.

If business owners have questions about the application process, call the City of Paducah Planning Department at 270-444-8601. A second round of funding will be opened at a later date with funding based upon the amount of donations to the Community Foundation which will be matched by the City of Paducah up to $100,000. Anyone who would like to donate to the Small Business Relief Fund, contact the Community Foundation at cfwestky.org/ or call 270-442-8622.