$1 Million Available to Help Small Businesses Improve Energy Efficiency, Prevent Pollution

Aug 13 - U.S. Newswire

The Department of Environmental Protection announced today that applications are now available online for the 2007 Small Business Advantage Grant Program.

DEP's Small Business Ombudsman Julien Gaudion said the $1 million program will help businesses implement money-saving energy efficiency and pollution- prevention projects that benefit the bottom line.

"Small businesses are a driving force behind Pennsylvania's economy, but rising energy costs are putting pressure on many of these employers' bottom lines," said Gaudion. "More and more, companies are realizing that environmentally conscious decisions about energy consumption are smart business decisions. If a business can cut its energy usage, it can reduce its expenses and increase its competitive position in the market."

The Small Business Advantage Grant Program provides a 50 percent matching grant -- up to $7,500 -- to help defray the costs of purchasing new equipment or implementing new processes that reduce energy consumption and prevent pollution, while helping to increase profitability.

The grants are awarded on a first-come, first-serve basis, and interested parties are encouraged to apply as early as possible. Applications can be found at http://www.depweb.state.pa.us, keyword: "SBAdvantage." Visitors may also select "Small Business Advantage Grant Program" from the energy topics dropdown list.

Applications will be accepted through Sept. 28.

To be eligible, an applicant must be a for-profit corporation, limited liability company, partnership, sole proprietorship or other legal entity with no more than 100 full-time employees. The entity must be a separate legal business at the time the application is submitted, and located within the commonwealth.

Applicants may be manufacturers, retailers, service providers, mining operators or agricultural businesses. The grant-supported project must be located within a Pennsylvania facility belonging to the applicant, and must save the business at least 10 percent in energy or pollution-related expenses annually.

The Small Business Advantage Grant Program has invested more than $2.8 million in 500 businesses across the state since Governor Edward G. Rendell launched the program in July 2004.

EDITOR'S NOTE: The Small Business Advantage Grant application will be posted online at 10 a.m. on Monday, Aug. 13.

CONTACT: Charles Young

(717) 787-1323

SOURCE Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection