NY Mets Owners Donate $ 17.5 Million to Rescue Pandemic-Affected Businesses in Queens | The State

Photo:
Edwin Martínez / Impremedia

Steve and Alexandra Cohen, new owners of the NY Mets team, are spearheading a $ 17.5 million grant program for Queens small businesses.

The owners of the baseball team donated the money through their foundation, with individual grants of up to $ 20,000 dollars to be distributed to minority family stores in ZIP codes most affected by COVID-19.

30% will go to restaurants and street vendors. “Small businesses are the lifeblood of our city, and COVID has had a devastating impact on them,” said Steve Cohen. “As owners of the Mets, we are proud to support small business owners during this difficult time, just as they have supported the team and the community over the years. We hope this donation brings them some relief. “

Only retail or personal service businesses with 20 or fewer full-time employees and a gross income of up to $ 1 million dollars in 2019 are eligible to apply. Restaurants that made $ 3 million or less in gross revenue in 2019 and have no open tax liens or unresolved judgments can also access the funds.

A total of $ 15 million will be distributed, and other $ 2.5 million is reserved for future use, said the city’s Economic Development Corporation (NYC / EDC).

He Queens Borough President Donovan Richards, praised the contribution. “Small businesses are the lifeblood of our communities, and no expense should be spared to avoid even a shutdown,” he said.

To apply, Businesses must be located in a Queens “low to middle income” ZIP code, or in a region most affected by COVID-19, detailed Queens Daily Eagle. More information on how to apply for funds on the NYC EDC portal.