Associated Press Published

West Virginia Offering Millions to Flood Damaged Businesses

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The state is making millions of dollars in minigrants available for small businesses damaged by deadly floods last month.

Gov. Earl Ray Tomblin announced Monday that grants up to $10,000 will be awarded to small businesses through the RISE West Virginia public-private partnership.

Tomblin set a minimum goal of $2 million through private donations and state money.

Tomblin plans to use some of the $4.5 million in state money usually earmarked for casinos.

Brad Smith, CEO of software company Intuit, is donating $500,000 and offering free software for affected small businesses.

Prospective donors can contact the West Virginia Development Office. Small businesses can apply for grants through the West Virginia Chamber of Commerce.

The June 23 floods killed 23 people and ravaged homes, businesses and infrastructure.