The bill amends the Wyoming business ready community program by establishing new requirements for grants and loans. It specifies that all grants must now include a minimum match of twenty-five percent (25%) of total eligible project costs, as determined by the council. Additionally, the bill removes references to educational development in the context of eligible projects, focusing solely on economic development, planning, or infrastructure projects. The council will continue to oversee the program and will refer all grants and loans to the state loan and investment board for final approval.

Furthermore, the bill clarifies that grants may be used for projects that encourage the expansion of existing businesses in the information technology storage sector, while eliminating previous language that referenced the University of Wyoming business technology center. The changes will apply to all grants and loans made under the program starting from the effective date of July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
26LSO-0071 v0.4: 9-12-601