The Town of Oyster Bay is using federal funding to give $600,000 in grants to local chambers of commerce and business associations that were impacted by the COVID pandemic.
The Farmingdale and Massapequa Chambers of Commerce were the first in line for the relief and received $50,000 each. The funding, provided by the American Rescue Plan Act, is being distributed to up to 12 chambers of commerce and business associations through the Nassau Council of Chambers of Commerce, according to a town statement.
“We recognize the crucial role that local chambers of commerce and business associations play in supporting small businesses, fostering commerce and establishing connections with potential customers,” Oyster Bay Supervisor Joseph Saladino said in the statement. “Unfortunately, so many of these organizations were significantly impacted by the COVID pandemic, leading to financial hardships. As part of the town’s commitment to supporting our local communities and aiding in the economic recovery of our town, we are pleased to offer this grant opportunity.”
The business organizations are eligible to receive up to $50,000, which can be used for a variety of purposes, including operations and maintenance expenses and community investments. In addition, individual businesses and nonprofits who have not yet applied for the town’s $5,000 Oyster Bay Forward grant program, available to sole proprietors and businesses that employ up to 50 full-time equivalent employees, can still receive funding.
“As a small business owner and chamber member, I know firsthand how the pandemic took its toll on local businesses,” Oyster Bay Councilwoman Laura Maier said in the statement. “Local businesses are the heart of our communities, and we want them to thrive as they keep local dollars on the economy, provide local jobs, build a strong tax base and invest in the local community. We stand by our small businesses, and we thank all of our chambers of commerce for their assistance in helping local businesses through the good times and the bad.”
