The City of Grand Rapids is offering grants to assist some qualified businesses impacted by the Coronavirus pandemic.
Qualifying small businesses impacted by the coronavirus pandemic and located in Grand Rapids’ neighborhoods of focus may be eligible for grants up to $10,000 to adapt to effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. The City is using $265,000 received through the CARES Act for the COVID Adaptation Program. Here’s Jeremiah Gracia, the Director of Economic Development for the City of Grand Rapids.
“Those neighborhoods of focus are 17 distinct census tracts, the near west and south side in relation to downtown. And again, in those areas there is a history of systemic and historic inequities. So, this is an important, intentional investment into those areas to help increase investment in areas that have not been as successful as other census tracks in the city.”
Gracia says COVID Adaptation Program grant funding is available for business adaptations, which includes things like, technology, furniture, fixtures and equipment purchases (including personal protective equipment) that are necessary due to COVID-19 impacts on the operation of the business.
The City previously provided grants up to $5,000 to small businesses for working capital (rent, utilities and payroll). Businesses that received those grants are eligible to apply to this program if they are located in the Neighborhoods of Focus and meet other eligibility requirements.
Completed grant applications will be evaluated in the order they are received until all funding has been allocated. The application process opens on July 19th at 8 am.
You can find more info at grandrapidsmi.gov\adaptationgrant
