Welcome to the latest Badger Bounceback Update!

We are excited to share updated information on grant and aid programs announced by Governor Tony Evers, funded by the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 (ARPA).  These critical one-time investments provide a lifeline to Wisconsin communities and businesses to ensure a strong pandemic recovery.

Read on to view the latest grant program announcements, application information and more. Check out direct program links to get additional details on specific programs.

 

Main Street Bounce Back Grants – Applications Now Open

The Main Street Bounceback Grants program provides $10,000 to new or existing businesses and non-profit organizations moving into vacant properties in Wisconsin’s downtowns and commercial corridors. The program is open to new or existing businesses opening a new location or expanding operations in a vacant commercial space as of January 1, 2021. Grant funds are available as part of the American Recovery Plan Act and will be distributed by the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation (WEDC) regional partners. Businesses must apply through the partner organization for the region in which they are located. Applications are open through June 30, 2022. 

Additional information about the Main Street Bounce Back Grants is available here: https://wedc.org/programs-and-resources/mainstreet-bounceback-grants/

 

Wisconsin Emergency Rental Assistance Program – Help Is Still Available 

The Wisconsin Emergency Rental Assistance Program (WERA) provides up to 15 months of assistance with current or overdue bills to help households that have been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic avoid eviction. More than 15,000 Wisconsinites have already received help with rent and utilities statewide. Even with the end of the moratorium on evictions, help is still available for eligible households through WISCAP agencies and Energy Services. The program is funded by the Federal Emergency Rental Assistance Program and administered by the Wisconsin Department of Administration. Additional information about the Wisconsin Emergency Rental Assistance Program is available here: https://doa.wi.gov/Pages/WERA.aspx