FREDERICK, Md. – Frederick County restaurants and food service businesses are being offered a second round of grants to support the hard-hit industry. County Executive Jan Gardner announced that an additional $1.3 million would be distributed this month. Food service businesses that received funding in the first round will automatically receive a second grant. Those that did not receive funds in the fall may apply now through 3 p.m. Wednesday, January 13.
Grants will be awarded in two categories. The first category includes commercially located bakeries and caterers, carry-out restaurants that have no seating, and food trucks. The second group includes restaurants without drive-thrus, and wineries, breweries, and distilleries. The amount of each grant will be determined by the number of establishments that apply. All eligible businesses in a given category will receive the same amount of funding.
To be eligible, the business must be located in Frederick County; be in good standing with the County and the State of Maryland; and possess a current food license from the Frederick County Health Department, or in the case of craft beverage manufacturers, possess a liquor license from the Frederick County Liquor Board.
Grant funds can be used to pay for:
Working capital, such as rent, payroll, and job training
Purchase of equipment and services to expand outdoor dining, such as tents, heaters, warmers, and carts
Infrastructure improvements, such as HVAC system upgrades
Technology to support carryout and delivery
Purchase of PPE and disposable food containers and utensils
Sanitization services
Additional information about the grants can be found on the County website. Applications can be made at www.FrederickCountyMD.gov/FoodServiceGrants. Applications will be accepted until 3 p.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 13. Questions about the grant program can be emailed to the Office of Economic Development at OED@FrederickCountyMD.gov.