Nearly 170 fuel retail locations were awarded grants from the state last week as Iowa businesses continue the slow recovery from the financial impact of the COVID-19 outbreak.

The Renewable Fuels Retail Recovery grant program, funded through $7 million from the CARES Act, is specifically aimed at aiding gas stations that sell or plan to sell ethanol and biodiesel to drive demand for these renewable fuels.

“I’m glad we are able to support so many renewable fuels retailers as they continue to battle demand disruption caused by the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Iowa Agriculture Secretary Mike Naig. “Renewable fuels are a win for everyone — consumers, retailers, farmers and rural communities. Restoring renewable fuels offerings around the state is a great way to support our farmers, and it gives all Iowans access to more affordable, cleaner-burning fuels.”

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