City’s small business loan program to open second round of applications

The interior of Columbus City Hall in Columbus, Ind., pictured Wednesday, Oct. 10, 2018, recently underwent a $177,000 renovation which included new paint and carpeting. Mike Wolanin | The Republic

COLUMBUS, Ind. — Columbus INvigorate, a local small business loan program designed to help businesses adversely affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, is opening the second round of applications.

The first round was closed on April 30 with about $700,000 being distributed in loans to more than 40 local businesses in amounts ranging from $5,000 to $25,000.

To be eligible, businesses must be within the city of Columbus boundaries and meet other specific requirements, including having fewer than 50 employees. Businesses must commit to remaining open and retaining employees.

For more information and an application, visit columbus.in.gov/columbus-invigorate. Applications are available in English and Spanish.

For more on this story, see Wednesday’s Republic.