Since the pandemic outbreak, many businesses in bustling commercial areas have shut down. Many communities have limited options, which has slowed economic activity. Boston is one city with a grant program to address this problem. Below, learn more about the SPACE grants for small businesses and other funding opportunities available.
Boston SPACE Grants
Boston’s SPACE (Supporting Pandemic Affected Communities Enterprises) Grant program was just launched. This program aims to revive the economy, help close the racial wealth disparity in the city and bring people back into central commercial districts. Grants will be awarded to up to 50 entrepreneurs to help them open new businesses in vacant spaces in major commercial communities. Each gift could provide as much as $200,000 and will be distributed over three years. February 17 is the deadline for the first round of applications.
Arkansas Cyber Defense Center Grant
The U.S. Small Business Administration Cybersecurity for Small Business Pilot Program grant recently funded the Forge Institute Arkansas Cyber Defense Center. With this funding, it is now offering free Cyber Risk Assessments to Arkansas small businesses. Although the grant will not directly provide cash to small companies, it will allow ACDC to expand its services. In its first year, the center will conduct at least 130 assessments. These companies won’t have to pay extra for this valuable service. It may also help them to catch serious threats.
Funding for the R.I. Rebounds program
The RI Rebouts program in Rhode Island provided financial assistance to small businesses affected by the pandemic. Hotels, tourism businesses, and arts and cultural organizations were the targeted industries. Recently, the R.I. Commerce board approved additional funding for this program. Select businesses that have already received grants could be eligible for an additional $800. The exact amount of funding will vary depending on industry and need. The state is still working on the details of these additional funds.
New Jersey MVP Program
Pre-qualification is being accepted by the New Jersey Economic Development Authority for its Manufacturing Voucher Program. New Jersey MVP Program provides $20 million to local manufacturers for equipment purchases and improvements. Online applications are accepted by interested businesses during the week-long period for pre-qualification, which ends December 22.
Waupaca County Veterans Service Grants
Current grants of $5,000 are being offered by the Waupaca County Veterans Services Office in Wisconsin to veteran-owned businesses. This program provides $150,000 in funding through the American Rescue Plan Act for local companies owned by active service personnel, honorably discharged veterans, and their spouses. Eligible businesses must first take part in an entrepreneurial training program offered by the Small Business Development Center of the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point. This training program’s first round will be provided in February 2023.
Clearwater ARPA Grants and Loans
Clearwater, Florida, offers $6.5 million in loans and grants to local small businesses. The city has allocated funds under the American Rescue Plan Act. To be eligible for assistance, businesses must have been financially affected by the pandemic. The program will target companies in three areas: education, cultural affairs, and North Greenwood businesses. Online applications are due February 15.
