RDA’s monthly meeting was held last week.

The Redevelopment Authority is weighing proposals aimed at strengthening the small business community in Warren County. Proposals for a new countywide microgrant program and a loan request to help reopen a downtown restaurant were both in conversation at Wednesday’s RDA meeting.

Warren County Chamber of Business and Industry Director of Operations Savannah Casey presented a proposal to the RDA seeking financial support to launch a small business microgrant program.

Casey said the idea has been under discussion for years, as local entrepreneurs frequently approach the chamber seeking grant funding. However, the chamber has been unable to meet many of these requests due to limited resources.

“Nine times out of ten, when small businesses come to the chamber, they’re looking for grant money,” Casey said.

The chamber has committed $30,000 to the initiative and has requested an additional $25,000 from Warren County Commissioners, who have indicated support. Casey formally asked the RDA to contribute $25,000 to create a $80,000 funding pool for the first year of the program.

The microgrants would help small businesses offset costs. Unlike many traditional grants, the proposed program would not require matching funds.

Applications would be reviewed by a committee made up of representatives from the city, county, the RDA, and regional partners including Gannon Small Business Development Center and the Northwest Commission.

Casey noted that requiring applicants to first become clients of the Gannon SBDC, a free service, would help ensure businesses are vetted and prepared before applying.

Officials discussed whether the program would operate countywide or be limited to city businesses. Casey clarified that the intent is for the program to serve all of Warren County, though administrative adjustments could be made if funding sources require geographic limits.

She described the first year as a pilot program but anticipates seeking annual funding in the future.

“I foresee the need far exceeding the funding available,” Casey said.

The RDA took no formal action but agreed to review the proposal and provide feedback.