Rome Area Chamber of Commerce announces business-assistance fund

ROME, N.Y. — The Rome Area Chamber of Commerce on Wednesday announced the availability of a business-assistance fund (BAF).

The BAF will provide grants to member businesses “who can demonstrate a financial hardship caused by the pandemic,” Adam Hovak, chairman of the Rome Area Chamber, said in a release.

The fund is designed to be a streamlined application process to efficiently get money to those who need it as quickly as possible.

To begin the effort, the Rome Area Chamber has seeded the BAF with $5,000 and raised nearly another $25,000 from individuals and businesses that could help. All contributions will go directly to local “struggling” small businesses that “need help the most.”

“Awards will likely range from $500 and up, and our executive committee will evaluate applications and make awards based on the needs and funding available” said Hovak. “All Rome area employers facing pandemic-related hardships are encouraged to apply. Preference will be given to those with a current or past Chamber relationship.”

The application is available at http://www.romechamber.com/BAF

The Rome Area Chamber is still accepting contributions, so anyone interested in donating can contact the chamber office for more information, the organization said.