Audio file of Radio Address. 

MADISON — Gov. Tony Evers today delivered the Democratic Radio Address highlighting two new competitive grant programs announced earlier this week totaling $75 million to support diverse business investment into historically underserved communities and communities of color that have been disproportionately impacted by the pandemic.

Hey, folks. Governor Tony Evers here.

We know that small businesses make up the lifeblood of any community, but it’s no secret that the pandemic had disproportionate effects on our communities of color and diverse businesses, and those in historically underserved and under-invested communities.

That’s why I’m glad to announce $75 million of our American Rescue Plan Act dollars will be going to specifically address the needs of businesses in communities of color that have been disproportionately affected by the pandemic. 

These funds will be split into two grant programs for diverse business assistance and investment through the local chambers of commerce and supporting micro-businesses through community development financial institutions.

To date, with the help from We’re All In and Main Street Bounceback Grant Programs, we estimate we have already helped more than 75,000 small businesses across the state get on the road to recovery, but with these announcements, we’re going to do even more. 

Because while Wisconsin is bouncing back, in order to ensure our recovery is sustainable and successful for years to come, we need to make sure every family, every worker, every business, and every community is bouncing back with us. 

We have the opportunity to build the sort of future we want for our state—one that is equitable, just, and works for everyone. And we know that when our small businesses thrive, so do the communities around them and so does our state.

Thank you. 

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