Owners of hotels, bars and restaurants who plan to apply for the county's $2.2 million in hospitality grant funds should first check out the county's website.

Mark Gordon, county chief of economic development, said eligible applicants must have specific documents and other information to apply for grant funds to compensate for their losses during the coronavirus pandemic.

Additionally, specific hospitality businesses are eligible for the grant.

Businesses in the hospitality industry can apply for the grants beginning March 15, Gordon said.

Business owners should ensure they are eligible and, if so, should have all their documents and information prepared before they apply.

Gordon said the list of requirements for eligibility as well as required documents and information will be listed on the county's website, butlercountypa.gov, by Friday.

Wil White, county solicitor, pointed out that businesses determining whether they are eligible for the grant before applying will also save money for the county, as the cost of processing a single application is about $500.

Gordon said those who are not eligible or those who do not receive funds because the funds have been exhausted will be directed to other programs for potential help.

The Southwest Pennsylvania Commission is administering the disbursement of the hospitality grant for the county.

Gordon said those in rural areas without reliable internet service can fax their information to the SPC.

Those without fax machines or copiers can use machines at the county government center, the county Tourism and Convention Bureau, any chamber of commerce or the Community Development Corporation office.