Noble County makes moves to boost nonprofits, businesses
NOBLE COUNTY, Ind. (Inside INdiana Business) — Several organizations in Noble County have launched efforts to support businesses affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. The efforts include a new fund to provide disaster assistance, as well as an online platform designed to promote businesses throughout the county while Governor Holcomb’s stay at home order is in place.
The Community Foundation of Noble County has designated $100,000 for the newly-created CFNC Disaster Response Fund. The foundation says it has set aside $75,000 to “support the immediate needs of key organizations in our county.” The foundation has not identified which local nonprofits will benefit from the funding.
Two organizations have been chosen for the remainder of the funding. The foundation has awarded $15,000 to the Noble County Community Organizations Active in Disasters Fund, which will support nonprofits providing food and other urgent, unmet needs throughout the county.
The United Way of Noble County will also receive $10,000 for its Emergency Relief Fund.
Additionally, officials from all five Noble County Chambers of Commerce, the Noble County Economic Development Corp. and Visit Noble County have launched SHOPNoble. The EDC says the website aims to serve as a one-stop shop for residents and businesses to shop local while also practicing social distancing.
As part of the effort, any local restaurant, retail or other small business with 20 employees or fewer can submit a profile that will be included on the website, which will feature a SHOPNoble directory. The EDC says eligible businesses must be “engaged in providing products or services to residents and other local businesses in Noble County.”
The developers say they plan to enhance the site after the COVID-19 crisis has passed in an ongoing effort to promote Noble County businesses.