The COVID-19 Hospitality Industry Recovery Program (CHIRP) is making $7.2 million in aid available to the hospitality industry, reports Kennedy Rose for the Philadelphia Business Journal. 

The block grants are part of a statewide allotment of $145 million to help hotels, restaurants and bars bounce back from the economic setbacks brought on by the COVID-19 outbreak. Bucks County’s portion is based on its population size. 

Each county’s eligibility requirements will vary, but in general, the funds are available to small businesses that have: 

• A location within Bucks County
• A record of operation since February 2020, with intentions to continue operating for a year
• Fewer than 300 employees
• A maximum tangible net worth of $15 million or less as of February 15, 2020 
• Documented proof that they saw a 25% reduction in gross receipts between 2019 and 2020 due to COVID-19

Bucks County’s application process runs March 15 to April 2. 

Read the Philadelphia Business Journal coverage, here, for more information on these funds.