Under the program, businesses can apply for a 50% matching grant of up to $7,500 for taking actions that save at least 20% annually in energy or pollution-related costs.
“The small business community is critical to Pennsylvania’s economic health and vitality,” said Hanger. “Well-designed energy efficiency and pollution prevention projects can help small businesses operate more efficiently and save money, while simultaneously improving Pennsylvania’s environment.”
DEP’s Small Business Ombudsman’s Office is now accepting applications for Small Business Advantage grants. Funds will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. The application deadline is January 15, 2009 or until the funds are exhausted.
To be eligible, an applicant must be a for-profit corporation, LLC, partnership, sole proprietorship or other legal entity with 100 or fewer full-time employees. The entity must be a separate legal business at the time the application is submitted and located within the state.
Applicants may be manufacturers, retailers, service providers, mining operators or agricultural businesses. The grant-supported project must be located within a Pennsylvania facility belonging to the applicant.
“This grant program is about choices and affordability,” said Hanger. “More choices than ever now exist for small business owners to conserve and save through a variety of diverse, innovative technologies. These grants make those technologies more affordable for small business owners looking to save money and become more profitable.”
Since Governor Edward G. Rendell launched the program in 2004, the Small Business Advantage Grant Program has awarded more than $4.9 million to 928 businesses across the state.
