The state is offering a much-needed lifeline to small businesses affected by COVID-19.

The state Department of Economic and Community Development is offering $50 million in assistance to small businesses. They say those interested must apply soon to take advantage of the help.

The application went live Thursday night.

DECD's deputy commissioner joined Sen. Tony Hwang and other local officials on Facebook Friday afternoon to help give business owners a rundown.

Businesses must have no more than 20 employees to be eligible, and tell the state what expenses the $5,000 grant will be used to cover.

Half of the $50 million allocated has been earmarked for 20 communities deemed "in distress" due to COVID-19.

Hwang says that money is needed all over the state.

"Every single one of our small businesses are under duress. They are in distressed situations. And that's one of the challenging things about government, we should be very careful about picking winners and losers. I think every business should be measured on the merits of the challenges that they have," said Hwang.

Fairfield and Milford are not on the "in distress" list.

Enough money has been set aside for 10,000 grants. Officials say they're expecting as many as 30,000 applications.

Applications need to be submitted by Thursday Nov. 19.