ANNAPOLIS, MD—Governor Wes Moore this week announced the launch of two additional economic relief programs to assist businesses impacted by the Key Bridge collapse.

The $15 million Port of Baltimore Emergency Business Assistance Program provides grants to businesses that have experienced a loss of revenue or increased costs due to the disruption of their shipments at the Port of Baltimore. The $12.5 million Port of Baltimore Worker Retention Program provides grants to businesses that are at risk of laying off employees in order to retain them.

The Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development is also offering $5 million in grants to small businesses impacted by the collapse, with eligibility capped at $50,000 per business. The loans from the Maryland Department of Commerce are repayable over ten years.

“We are working together to support everyone affected by the economic consequences of the Key Bridge collapse — from workers to businesses to entrepreneurs,” said Governor Moore. “These relief programs extend a lifeline to the people and places touched by this tragedy. Moving in partnership, we will continue to offer stability, certainty, and support to Marylanders as they navigate the challenges of this moment.”

Applications for the assistance programs are open now and will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis. Further information can be found on the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development website or the Maryland Department of Commerce website.

This article was written with the assistance of AI and reviewed by a human editor.

Photo via Key Bridge Response 2024 Unified Command