By Kathy Chouteau
It’s no secret that COVID-19 cast a widespread blow to local businesses. A new grant opportunity for small business owners in Richmond aims to alleviate some of that residual pandemic pain.
The City of Richmond’s ARPA Business Support Grant Program, run by the Renaissance Center with an application period of now through Jan. 20, is offering grants from $5,000 to $10,000 to support the “stability, capacity building and growth” of small businesses.
To qualify, businesses must have experienced negative impacts from COVID-19, be located in Richmond and have an annual gross revenue of under $1 million. Brick-and-mortar, home-based or delivery businesses are included. Gas stations, franchises, smoke shops, churches and nonprofits are not eligible for the grants.
The program will distribute $350,000 in funding through two phases: Phase 1, which runs now through Jan. 20 and Phase 2, which is tentatively set for Spring 2025. Qualifying small businesses can receive $5,000 for solopreneurs; up to $7,500 for businesses with 2-5 employees and/or a physical location; and up to $10,000 for businesses with more than five employees.
To receive the grant funding, small businesses must complete a minimum of four hours of free business consultations or workshops offered by the Renaissance Center.
Businesses can learn more about the grant program, make inquiries and receive application support at Information Sessions Monday, Nov. 26 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at CoBiz, 1503 Macdonald Ave. in Richmond; and Wednesday, Dec. 4 from 12 to 1:30 p.m. at CoBiz. Register here for a session.
To apply for the grant, click here. Contact the Renaissance Center with questions at 510-221-2000 or [email protected].
