Hagerty has been listening to the problems that many classic car repair, restoration shops, spares businesses and more have been suffering during the Corona lockdown. So they are doing something to preserve that vital network of bodyshops, engine rebuilders, wheel re-spoking firms and more. Last week Hagerty announced the launch of its “Restore the Roar” grant initiative to help jumpstart U.S.-based enthusiast vehicle restoration shops, specialty parts manufacturers and other related businesses negatively impacted by the COVID-19 economic decline.
Applications are available online starting today and due by May 4 – note USA based companies only!
“Many of the events we partner with have been cancelled for this year, so we are redeploying that money to help the small businesses in this industry,” said Hagerty CEO McKeel Hagerty. “These small shops and talented craftspeople are the engine that keep this industry alive. So, if we can help keep a few of them afloat during this tough time, we’re honored to do so.”
Grants will range from $5,000 to $10,000 and be awarded in mid-May.
To be considered for the Hagerty “Restore the Roar” small business grants, a business must:
- Be independently owned and operated
- Have fewer than 20 employees
- Have annual revenue less than $5 million
- Be 50 percent focused on the collectible and enthusiast vehicle industry
- Demonstrate need based on the crisis’ impact on business
- Demonstrate how the funds will be used
For full qualification details and to access the grant application, visit https://bit.ly/Hagerty-Restore-the-Roar
“We are viewing this as a first step,” Hagerty said. “Coronavirus isn’t suddenly going to go away, and neither will its economic effects, so we are working with our partners to see if we can make this grant program something that will last beyond the near-term.”
IE Comment;
It would be great to see similar work by the big UK car insurers to support the network of specialist repair network companies across the UK. Many offer incredible in-depth knowledge of particular marques, or classic bikes and cars. The independent 1-6 person smaller companies really need to be helped right now. Once we lose this expertise, it will take a long time to come back.
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