Region AHEAD Launches Recovery Efforts for Flood-Affected Small Businesses in Northeast Tennessee and Southwest Virginia
In the heart of the Appalachian Highlands, communities are coming together like never before. Following a catastrophic flood on September 27, Region AHEAD has stepped up in a big way, raising over $300,000 in funds and pledges to assist small business owners in our region. This outpouring of support means a lot—especially as these businesses struggle to recover from the devastating impacts of natural disasters.
A Fresh Start for Local Businesses
Region AHEAD, which previously provided more than $250,000 in grants to aid businesses hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic, is now refocusing its mission to help those who have been affected by this recent flooding. Andy Dietrich, the founder and chairman, expressed his enthusiasm about the initiative. “Our organization has solicited donations and prepared a grant application process to share funds for small business owners as quickly as possible,” he shared. For those in need, the pathway to recovery is only a click away. Business owners can simply visit RegionAhead.com to begin the process.
How to Apply for Grants
If you’re a small business owner in one of the affected areas, it’s time to bring your hopes and plans back to life by applying for a grant. The application process is straightforward. You can complete the application online by heading to the Region AHEAD website, or you can download the application form, fill it out, and then upload it to submit. The aim is to make the process as smooth as possible, so don’t hesitate to get started!
Community Support: A Wonderful Response
The amazing response from individuals and corporations has been heartwarming. Lottie Ryans, the Director of Workforce & Literacy Initiatives for the First Tennessee Development District, was pleased with the outpouring of support, stating, “The response by individual donors and corporations and utilities has been gratifying.” An incredible example of this support is BrightRidge, which stepped up to donate $150,000 almost immediately after the call for help went out. The funds raised will be administered through the FTDD Foundation, ensuring they get to where they are needed the most.
Counties Benefiting from Donations
Support for small businesses is focused on several counties across the region. In Tennessee, areas such as Carter, Greene, Hancock, and Sullivan counties will benefit, while in Virginia, the counties of Buchanan, Dickenson, and others are included. Donors can target their contributions to specific counties or opt to support a general fund that aids businesses region-wide.
The Call for Donations
As Beth Rhinehart, President and CEO of the Bristol Tennessee and Virginia Chamber of Commerce, pointed out, the need for support is substantial. She noted the severity of the situation, referencing that this catastrophe’s impact has been described as second only to Hurricane Katrina. Hence, she urges everyone to pitch in: “Everyone needs to donate to the fund now.”
The Team Behind Region AHEAD
The original members of Region AHEAD remain pivotal in this new recovery effort, which includes several chambers of commerce from both Tennessee and Virginia, along with organizations like Ballad Health and Creative Energy. Miles Burdine, President and CEO of the Kingsport Chamber, highlighted the intention behind the grants saying, “Our grants are intended to provide recovery funds to key industries of our region,” focusing on critical sectors like tourism, accommodations, food service, retail trade, and manufacturing.
A Sense of Hope
“I thank our donors who brought hope to small business owners so quickly,” concluded Andy Dietrich. He reassured those submitting grant applications that a quick review process is in place to facilitate relief for struggling business owners. If you wish to donate or apply for a grant, just venture over to RegionAhead.com and make a difference today.
