Coronavirus Relief Checks Given To Cherokee Small Businesses

CHEROKEE COUNTY, GA — The Cherokee Office of Economic Development held a socially distanced “drive-through” check event Jan. 14 to present recipients of the Cherokee Small Business Grant Program with COVID-19 relief funding. The grant is made possible through the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security Act funding administered through the Cherokee County Community Development Block Grant Program.

“We have been pleased to operate this program and appreciate the confidence the county and the board of commissioners has placed in us,” said Cherokee Office of Economic Development Chairman Marshall Day. “Supporting Cherokee’s small businesses during this challenging time is paramount to who we are as a community and our belief in their economic vitality.”

The Cherokee Small Business Grant is designed to assist small businesses with operational expenses such as rent, utilities, payroll, or personal protective equipment.

A total of nine local businesses were awarded relief funding at the Jan. 14 event with additional awards still in progress. Grant recipients represent a variety of businesses from coffee roasters and clockmakers to karate studios and bus sales.

North Atlanta Venture Mentoring Service Venture The American Cuckoo Clock Company was among those awarded.

“After the virus snuffed out our launch in early 2020, we converted a Promaster van into a mobile Cuckoo Clock Gallery – turning 2020 into a successful marketing year,” American Cuckoo Clock Owner Jodie Davis said. “In just the nick of time, the grant is opening the doors to our new cuckoo clock workshop where we will have room to construct clocks, hire employees, and ultimately to become a magical destination and landmark for Cherokee County.”

Applications for a second round of grant funding are now being accepted through Friday. For full program information and to apply, visit the COED grants page.