Economic Recovery Grant Available for Independent Retailers
The New Mexico Department of Homeland Security & Emergency Management (DHSEM) is actively working in Ruidoso to support post-disaster economic recovery. As part of this effort, the Economic Recovery Team has identified the Heart on Main Street grant to provide financial assistance to independent retailers affected by natural disasters.
The program offers grants of up to $10,000 to help businesses cover immediate expenses such as rent, utilities, payroll, and inventory—costs that are critical to reopening and sustaining operations.
Eligibility
The program is open to independent retailers based in the United States and U.S. territories. Applicants must:
Be an independent retailer.
Have experienced a federally declared disaster within the past 12 months.
Provide proof of business ownership and operation before the disaster.
Demonstrate the financial impact of the disaster through documentation.
Additional Considerations
Retailers may receive only one grant per year, but those who have also received aid from other sources may still apply. Grant awards vary depending on the level of damage, financial need, and available funding.
How to Apply
Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.
Local business owners can receive application assistance at the Disaster Recovery Center, located at the ENMU-Ruidoso Annex.
Visit heartonmainstreet.org to learn more and apply online.
For direct support, contact DHSEM at 505-670-4662 or email DHSEM-DCM@dhsem.nm.gov.
Local support is also available through the Ruidoso Valley Chamber of Commerce at 575-257-7395.
This program is designed to help small, independent retailers in our community recover quickly, reopen their doors, and continue serving Ruidoso residents and visitors.
