Additional details regarding $50M Hotel Relief

From the Maryland Department of Commerce:

As of December 17, Governor Hogan has announced additional $180 million in economic relief initiatives, to include $50 million for hotels and hospitality businesses; an additional $30 million for bars and restaurants; an additional $15 million for entertainment venues; and $5 million for rural businesses. For further information, please visit this resource page, as further details become available they will be provided there. 
 
The $30 million in additional funds for restaurants will be allocated to local jurisdictions in the form of a grant from the state and must be disbursed to businesses by no later than March 31, 2021. These grants can be used for working capital, such as rent, payroll, and job training, purchase of equipment and services to expand outdoor dining, such as tents, heaters, warmers, and carts, infrastructure improvements, such as HVAC system upgrades, technology to support carryout and delivery, purchase of PPE and disposable food containers or utensils, sanitation services, and any other costs as long as those costs are eligible for funding by the local jurisdiction. Applicants should check with their jurisdiction on the allowed uses for funds, as they will decide final criteria and guidelines.
 
The $50 million in relief for lodging establishments and hospitality will be allocated to local jurisdictions in the form of a grant from the state. These grants can be used for things such as payroll expenses, rent, and utilities in order to keep operations going while travel is restricted.  Applicants should check with their local jurisdiction on the allowed uses for funds, as they will decide final criteria and guidelines.
 
It is important to note that businesses MUST apply through their local jurisdiction for the hotel and restaurant funds. Counties are in the process of setting up their individual grant programs. To see if your county has launched their restaurant or lodging assistance program, please check here for updates. 
 
If you are looking for financial assistance, we encourage you to continue exploring county and federal funding options listed on the “financial assistance” section of our website. We are updating it as more programs are announced throughout the state. You may wish to explore these resources.