The North Carolina Department of Commerce announced the allocation of funds to assist local businesses in mitigating layoffs resulting from Hurricane Helene. The initiative, named the Hurricane Helene Business Edge Fund, offers $500,000 in grant funding aimed at supporting workforce development boards in Western North Carolina. The measure, unveiled by N.C. Commerce Secretary Lee Lilley, aims to help communities retain jobs and businesses in the aftermath of the storm. The program is part of the Department’s broader efforts to foster long-term economic recovery in the region.
The fund is managed through the Governor’s Rapid Response program within the North Carolina Department of Commerce’s Division of Workforce Solutions (DWS). Local workforce development boards can apply to the DWS for funding and subsequently grant up to $10,000 to eligible businesses and community-based organizations. Eligible employers must be located in one of the specified counties severely impacted by the storm, including Ashe, Avery, and Buncombe, among others. To qualify, businesses must have operated for at least two years, be current on Unemployment Insurance taxes, and in good IRS standing. Applications need to detail the necessity for layoff aversion support and appropriate fund utilization plans.
Permissible uses for the layoff aversion support include Incumbent Worker Training, internet and remote access tool installations, and services enabling online sales transitions for certain businesses. However, funds cannot be used for items such as insurance-covered products, hazard pay, rent, and employee wages or benefits. Businesses interested in applying are encouraged to reach out to their local workforce development board or NCWorks Career Center. Contact information can be found through the North Carolina Association of Workforce Development Boards website.
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