Sen. Akbari prioritizes direct assistance for small business from federal Covid-19 funds

NASHVILLE — The Financial Stimulus Accountability Group announced a $200 million relief program for Tennessee businesses affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Sen. Raumesh Akbari (D-Memphis), a member of the group, said small business assistance was one of her top priorities.

“This new stimulus program represents my belief that our focus and support should be targeted toward helping ‘mom and pop’ shops, the little guys and women- and minority-owned businesses — especially those that missed out on federal programs,” Sen. Akbari said. “Whether it’s a diner, a beauty salon or specialty shop, small businesses are the bedrock foundation of our communities and state economy. I’m hopeful this money helps some of these small, family-owned businesses catch up on rent or utility bills that were hard to pay because of this pandemic.”

“We will make a come back together and this is solid step in the right direction,” Akbari said.

The Tennessee Business Relief Program will pay about $200 million in federal Coronavirus Relief Funds directly to qualifying small businesses.