RICHMOND, Ind. – Small businesses affected by the August floods can now apply for emergency grants through a new Wayne County program.

The Business Bridge Grant Program, announced by the Wayne County Area Chamber of Commerce, Economic Growth Group and Wayne County Government, will provide grants of $3,000 to $5,000 for eligible businesses.

The money can be used for expenses including payroll, rent, utilities, equipment repairs, inventory replacement and flood cleanup.

Eligible businesses must be located in Wayne County, have fewer than 20 employees and demonstrate flood-related damage, economic loss or interruption.

Organizers expect the program to assist about 40 to 50 businesses.

 Applications will be reviewed based on flood impact, immediate financial need and recovery potential.

Contributions to this fund can be made here.