"Mandan Strong" Business Mini Match for Innovation, Adaptability & Diversification

New applications for this program are not being accepted after Nov. 30, 2020.

Oct. 8, 2020 — Mandan businesses facing reduced revenues due to COVID-19 have a third chance to apply for “Mandan Strong Business Mini Match” funds. The application deadline for the new funding round is Nov. 30. Matching funds of up to $3,000 per entity are available to help businesses become more innovative, adaptive or diverse to better withstand crisis.

The Mandan City Commission approved the additional application round earlier this week as the pandemic continues and negative impacts on businesses mount.

The program requires a 1:2 match from the applicant, or in other words, at least one-third of the project cost must be borne by the applicant. To receive the maximum $3,000, the applicant needs to commit to an investment of $1,500 toward a qualified $4,500 project. Example of eligible projects include:

• e-commerce websites or social media channels tied to e-commerce,
• the addition of technology or digital programs to broaden or otherwise enhance customer service and product delivery options,
• creation of outdoor seating spaces, and
• the addition of new products or services to attract more customers or generate more repeat business.

Approximately $50,000 remains available in the Mandan Growth Fund from an original allotment of up to $75,000 for the program that sunsets at the end of 2020. Program details and the application are linked below.

The local program is intended as a complement to the North Dakota Department of Commerce Economic Resiliency Grant Program providing up to $50,000 per business for improvements that reduce the spread of infection to inspire confidence to return to the market place. The Mandan program includes flexibility for start-up businesses that may not yet have reached profitability prior to the Coronavirus pandemic, but that can survive with assistance. It also allows use of funds for different purposes.

Local matching dollars will not be awarded for duplicate purposes to any business project approved for a state grant unless the magnitude is sufficient to prevent any overlap in funding use.