The East Palestine Emergency Support Program was created to provide loans to assist with ongoing expenses and recovery efforts for businesses impacted by the February 2023 train derailment. To date, 23 businesses have received support totaling more than $3.8 million of the $5 million available for 0% interest, forgivable loans. The loan program was created by the Ohio Department of Development in partnership with the Ohio General Assembly with funds from the Controlling Board Emergency Purposes/Contingencies Fund.
Eligibility
For-profit and non-profit businesses located within a two-mile radius of East Palestine that were operational on or prior to Dec. 1, 2022, are eligible to apply. The loans are 0% interest and range from $10,000 to $1 million. The loans are forgivable if utilized for payroll, employee benefits, rent or mortgage payments, utility expenses, worker protection, or inventory replacement expenses related to the train derailment. Please be aware applicants will need to document financial impacts from the derailment.
How to Apply
The EPESP will be available until all funds have been committed. Eligible businesses can still apply through the online application available at development.ohio.gov/EastPalestine.
For help or questions about the program, contact:
Haedan Panezott – Columbiana County Port Authority Private Sector Specialist by calling (330) 424-1800 ext.120, emailing haedanp@ccpa-ohioriver.com, or visiting ccpa-ohioriver.com for more information.