Iowa restaurants and bars that were impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic can apply for a new grant program announced by Governor Kim Reynolds.

Reynolds has allocated $40 million in federal CARES Act funds for the Iowa Restaurant and Bar Relief Program. Eligible businesses for this program had to experience a decrease in gross sales of at least 15% during the second and third quarters of 2020 compared to the same time the previous year, as evidenced by the Iowa Sales/Retailer’s Use Tax and Surcharge Return. Grant award amounts will be determined using a tiered system based on the percent of gross sales loss. Grant award maximums will range from $10,000 to $25,000. The online application will be available at iowabusinessrecovery.com from February 1st at noon to February 15th at 5 p.m.