Still Budaful 2.0 kicks off with $250K for Buda businesses

The first version was so good, Still Budaful 2.0 rolled out for businesses in the community June 3.

The program was approved by members of Buda City Council on June 2, and the Buda Economic Development Corporation will make $250,000 available to assist businesses affected by coronavirus. Eligible expenses include:

• Rent/mortgage;
• Employee support (salaries, insurance, paid leave);
• Utilities (electricity, phone, internet);
• Purchase of supplies to offer alternative business access;
• Additional expenses as a result of increased cost from supplies or alternate suppliers; and
• Other business needs as approved by the Small Business Task Force.

Buda EDC and the city initiated Still Budaful soon after the area businesses closed down due to coronavirus. The first round of assistance was $380,000.

To be eligible, Buda businesses must have 50 or fewer employees, be registered with the Texas Secretary of State and be in good standing and be willing to provide the documentation needed for review.

“The EDC is proud to support Buda businesses with the Still Budaful Stimulus 2.0,” BEDC Board President Jennifer Storm said. “Every business in our community is important, and we are doing all we can to help as many businesses as possible. Simply focusing on recruiting business to Buda is not enough; supporting them through the good times and bad is critically important.”

Funding for Still Budaful comes from the EDC, the city general fund and hotel occupancy tax funds.

“We have been honored to facilitate this process,” Buda Tourism Director Lysa Gonzales said. “Buda’s businesses are the backbone of the community. The additional funding from the Buda EDC will ensure that we reach even more business owners in Buda and provide them with the help they need at this challenging time.”

For eligible requirements and to file an application by 5 p.m. June 10, visit www.stillbudaful.org.