Assemblyman Kenneth Zebrowski (D-New City) announced the creation of the Hurricane Irene-Tropical Storm Lee Business Flood Recovery Grant Program to provide assistance to eligible small businesses, not-for-profit organizations, farms or owners of multiple dwellings that sustained direct physical flood-related damage as a result of Hurricane Irene or Tropical Storm Lee.

“Hurricane Irene and Tropical Storm Lee had a devastating effect on our community,” Zebrowski said. “These grants will hopefully fill in the gaps left by the lack of private insurance or federal assistance.”

Empire State Development will provide $21 million for the grant program, awarding grants up to $20,000 for eligible entities. The funding is intended to help offset the costs of storm-related repairs and the restoration of structures not covered by other federal, state or local recovery programs. Preference will be given to applicants who are deemed to have the greatest need.

To be eligible for assistance under the program, the entity must have sustained direct, physical flood-related damage stemming from Irene or Lee.

“In these tough economic times, any unforeseen cost can be devastating to a small business, farm or not-for-profit,” Zebrowski said. “It is important to lend a hand to those in need and these grants should greatly benefit those businesses that need extra help in getting back on their feet.”

Application information can be obtained by calling 518-292-5340 or emailing floodrecovery@esd.ny.gov. For more details on the program or to fill out an online application, please visit www.esd.ny.gov/businessprograms/floodrecovery.html. An original signed application must be provided and sent to Empire State Development at 30 S. Pearl St., Albany, NY, 12245. The application deadline is March 16, 2012.