Evers announces new funding for minority-owned businesses

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- Gov. Tony Evers visited Milwaukee Monday, March 21, to announce new funding for minority-owned businesses. 

Evers said businesses were disproportionately affected by the pandemic, with higher rates of business closures and layoffs. 

Evers said the state has allocated more than $600 million in relief funds to minority-owned businesses to make sure they get the help they need.

"So I'm glad to say that we've invested over $1 billion so far in supporting our small businesses, farmers, tourism-lodging and entertainment industries. We've supported more than 100,000 small businesses in the state," Evers said. 

Evers had originally said $75 million was designated for the grants but Monday, he announced more funding is available -- bringing the total to $86 million.