(a) The Department shall, subject to appropriation, provide technical assistance to grantees awarded grants under the Act, and other small, independently owned grocery stores to ensure their long-term viability and business success. Technical assistance, online resources, and materials provided shall include, but shall not be limited to, business planning, marketing, financing, supply chain management, and workforce development assistance.
     (b) The Department may enter into grants, contracts, or other agreements to provide assistance. At least one technical assistance provider shall be located in a county with a population of at least 3,000,000 inhabitants, and at least one provider shall be located in a county with a population of less than 400,000 inhabitants.