The governor’s administration is launching a $40 million economic recovery grant program targeting Maine’s tourism, hospitality and small retail businesses.

The administration of Governor Janet Mills announced Monday that the program uses federal CARES Act money that will go to businesses like bars, tasting rooms, lodging and retail shops that have been feeling the impact of coronavirus-related restrictions.

Her administration says the grants will evaluate businesses’ need for relief by looking at gross sales losses from March to September compared to the same time period in 2019.

In a statement issued Monday, Governor Mills said:

“Maine’s hospitality, tourism, and retail industries are a vital part of Maine’s economy, supporting tens of thousands of jobs across the state, “In the face of this unrelenting pandemic, many of these businesses have adapted with classic Maine grit and resilience but still face historic and unprecedented challenges. I hope this program will help provide at least a small amount of financial support to sustain them through these difficult times. I continue to urge Congress to pass additional, robust relief for Maine people and businesses.”