MONTPELIER – The Business Emergency Gap Assistance Program (BEGAP) application portal is now open again for properties damaged by the 2023 and/or 2024 flooding. BEGAP is a grant program for businesses, nonprofits, landlords and farms that suffered physical damage from flooding. It is available for properties damaged in 2023 and/or 2024. This program is offered through the Department of Economic Development’s (DOD) Agency of Commerce and Community Development (ACCD).
“As Vermonters continue efforts to recover from the devastating flooding of the last two years, BEGAP has been an important lifeline for our businesses who often are not eligible for federal disaster grants,” said Governor Scott. “I’m pleased we are restarting this program to help more employers receive the necessary support to rebuild, reopen, and bring people back to work.”
Property that is eligible for 2023 BEGAP funding may also be eligible for 2024 BEGAP funding. Separate applications must be submitted for each year’s funding, for each physical location. A business or nonprofit can receive grants for up to three physical locations, per flood.
Businesses and nonprofits are encouraged to visit accd.vermont.gov/BEGAP to learn how the program works and what they need to have on hand before they begin the online application process. Eligibility and grant calculations differ depending on several factors.
Applications are due November 15 for properties affected by the 2024 floods. Grants will cover 30% of net uncovered damages, up to $100,000. Preference will be given to Vermont-based operations. Ten percent of funds have been set aside for Black, Indigenous, and Persons of Color applicants.
2023 BEGAP Funding: Applications are due September 30 for properties affected by the 2023 floods that have not yet already received 2023 BEGAP funding. Grants will cover 30% of net uncovered damages, up to $50,000. Twenty percent of funds have been set aside for Black, Indigenous, and Persons of Color applicants.
Supplemental 2023 BEGAP Funding may be available for qualifying businesses that use the application to submit an inquiry for 2023 Supplemental BEGAP funding. Inquiries that are deemed to be eligible applicants will then receive an email directing them to apply for 2023 Supplemental BEGAP funding. All applicants seeking assistance in preparing to submit this grant application can receive help from the Central Vermont Economic Development Corporation. Applicants should fill out a support request form at centralvermont.org/begap-support and an agency will follow up with resources to help.
Agricultural businesses are encouraged to visit the Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets (AAFM) website for guidance before applying. For agricultural businesses questions, email [email protected]. 40% of 2024 funds are reserved for applications from agricultural and silvicultural businesses until November 15, 2024.
Non-English speakers who need translation assistance, should please email
[email protected] to be connected with state-contracted translation and interpretation services.
A pre-recorded webinar is available to help walk applicants through the application process with step-by-step instructions and answers to FAQ’s at youtube.com/watch?v=4RrLI0yC0Gc For additional questions about BEGAP email [email protected].
