Johnson Co. organizations partner to offer significant grants for underrepresented businesses
Greater Iowa City Inc., Community Foundation of Johnson County, and South of 6 are teaming up to offer grants to historically underrepresented small businesses in Johnson County.
The final round of ARPA(American Rescue Plan Act)-funded grants will award businesses with $3,500 to $20,000, for essential 'growth and stability' assistance.
Two categories of grants are available until April 30. The operational support grant will help cover essential costs like payroll, rent, and utilities. The storefront improvements grant will help fund façade updates, interior renovations, or accessibility upgrades.
Grant awardees will be announced in June.
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'We want to ensure that the small business owners who have been traditionally underrepresented have an opportunity to get the support they need," said Maurice Davis, Executive Director of the South of 6 Business District, in a news release. "This grant helps them rebuild and move forward stronger.'
To be eligible, businesses must be for-profit, located in Johnson County, and at least 50% owned by individuals from underserved groups, such as BIPOC, women, people with disabilities (as defined by the ADA), LGBTQ+ individuals, immigrants, or refugees. Applicants must also demonstrate that the COVID-19 pandemic had a significant impact on their business, according to the online application.
Greater Iowa City Inc., Community Foundation of Johnson County, and South of 6 are also hosting in-person information sessions. Each session will have laptops, on-site childcare, bus passes, and a $25 stipend for completing the application.
More: Portions of Iowa City's biggest parking garage may close in the next few months. What to know:
The first session was held on Thursday, April 10. The next session is set for 5:30 p.m. on Wednesday, April 16, at the Coralville Public Library, while the final session will be held at 5:30 p.m. Thursday, April 24 at the North Liberty Library.
Jessica Rish is an entertainment, dining and education reporter for the Iowa City Press-Citizen. She can be reached at JRish@press-citizen.com or on X, formerly known as Twitter, @rishjessica_
This article originally appeared on Iowa City Press-Citizen: How to apply for Johnson County's underrepresented business loans
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