BEMIDJI 鈥� In response to the devastating storms that swept through the Bemidji region on June 21, local economic development partners have launched the Bemidji Business Rebuild Program.
The program is a rapid-response loan initiative designed to help small businesses recover, rebuild, and remain open.
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Greater Bemidji, the Northwest Minnesota Foundation (NMF), the Headwaters Regional Development Commission (HRDC), the Bemidji Area Chamber of Commerce and the City of Bemidji collectively have created the initiative.
The program provides 0% interest loans up to $10,000 with no payments required in the first year, a release noted.
These funds are intended to cover urgent needs such as insurance payments, cleanup, inventory replacement, temporary relocation, and equipment costs not covered by insurance.
Businesses with greater financial needs may be eligible for larger funding amounts through related programs, the release said.
"This is about helping our local businesses bridge the gap between insurance claims and real recovery," Dave Hengel, Executive Director at Greater Bemidji, said in the release. "We want businesses to know: you're not alone 鈥� we're here to help you get back on your feet.
"I am especially grateful to our partners at the City, NWMF, HRDC and the Chamber for their rapid response in supporting our local businesses."
Businesses interested in applying should contact Greater Bemidji at (218) 444-5757, or by email at dhengel@greaterbemidji.com .
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