News

Governor’s administration to launch program to help tourism, hospitality, and retail businesses

Governor’s administration to launch program to help tourism, hospitality, and retail businesses

Photo: 560 WGAN Newsradio


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.”

Latest Headlines

23 hours ago in Local

Police Looking for Missing Washington County Teen

The Washington County Sheriff's Office are looking for 16-year-old Lilyanna Rose Cook, who was last seen in Roque Bluffs, Maine.

1 day ago in Local

Struck-down Maine citizen’s referendum on super PAC donations heads to appeals court

Despite getting over 75% of the vote, a Portland judge deemed the referendum unconstitutional this past summer, citing the ruling made by the Supreme Court on the 2010 Citizen's United case.

2 days ago in Local

Police find missing teen after vehicle pursuit in Skowhegan

A missing teenager was found in the vehicle of a Norridgewock man who police say led them on a chase in Skowhegan on Thursday.

2 days ago in Local

Maine State Police seeking information about bank fraud suspect in Aroostook County and Bangor

A woman is wanted for bank fraud in Bangor and Aroostook County.

3 days ago in Local

What to Know About Maine U.S. Senate Race

Democrats are hoping to unseat Republican Susan Collins.