POCAHONTAS — Pocahontas County Economic Development Commission is hoping to expand the county’s business community by offering up to $10,000 to at least one startup business per year.

The offering is made possible through the Jump-Start Accelerator Grant Program.

PDEC will provide support as needed through their network of partners, including the opportunity to participate in business training through Iowa Central Community College and the Small Business Development Center to ensure that the grant recipients have the skills and training necessary to be successful.

“This grant program will foster valuable business partnerships with Pocahontas County and throughout Iowa,” said Tom Grau, executive director for economic development. “We will match the grant recipients up with existing business professionals to serve as mentors as they work to open their doors.”

New startups, businesses relocating to Pocahontas County, and businesses wanting to add additional locations within the county are invited to apply. All businesses must be located or will plan to locate within Pocahontas County upon being named a grant recipient. All applicants will be required to fill out the complete application and submit a business plan and resume. Applications will open July 1 and are due July 20. Funding decisions will be made by Aug. 31.

Contact Emily Williams or Tom Grau at 712-335-4636 or email office@growpoco.com for additional information.