Our Perspective
Spotlight: Good News and Continued Efforts
As our economy takes steps forward and with a 5.9% unemployment rate for August down from 8.4% in April, there are notes of good news and continued efforts to boost business.
- Last week, Bloomaker announced a 22,000 square foot warehouse expansion. The company anticipates shipping close to 1.5 million amaryllis bulbs nationwide. Congratulations to Bloomaker on continued success and growth.
- The Augusta County Disaster Recovery Grant Fund opened up for another round with expanded eligibility. Businesses who previously received Paycheck Protection Program Loans or Economic Injury Disaster Loans are now eligible, and grants are available for $1,000-$15,000 per recipient. Applicants should review the full application for further details. The Grant Overview and Application can be found at www.augustavabusiness.com/facts-figures/covid-19/.
- Join the Staunton, Augusta, and Waynesboro Economic Development and Tourism offices on September 22 at 9am for our yearly Economic Outlook. Hosted by the Greater Augusta Regional Chamber of Commerce via Zoom, the update will provide insight into recent efforts, current initiatives, and upcoming programs. Register here.
- The Chamber and the Shenandoah Valley Small Business Development Center will host a quarterly Restaurant Roundtable beginning September 14. The virtual event will feature the Virginia Health Department highlighting COVID guidelines and best practices. The presentation will be followed by time for restaurant owners and general managers to share tips, concerns, and questions with each other. Registration closes tomorrow, September 11 at noon.
As always, our office is here for questions and concerns. Thanks to our business community for your strength and commitment during this time.
Rebekah Castle, Director of Economic Development & Marketing
Augusta County Economic Development & Tourism
540-245-5619
