The applications for the Small Business Economic Relief Microgrant Program for Wards 7 and 8 are live NOW and can be completed until 10 a.m. Friday, May 29.
On May 15, Mayor Muriel Bowser (D) announced that the Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) will make up to $800,000 available for small businesses in Wards 7 and 8. The program will provide each business up to $10,000.
The first microgrant program was established March 17 with a $25 million pot, and closed April 2. The funding pool was later expanded with an additional $8 million sourced from both Events DC and the Federal CARES Act. More than 7,000 applications were received, and grantees were notified between April 29 and May 8.
This second, expanded round is for small businesses in Ward 7 and 8 that did not apply for a grant during the first round in the microgrants program.
Eligible businesses must be:
- defined as a small business as defined by the Small Business Administration (SBA)
- for-profit businesses located in Wards 7 and 8 in Washington DC
- located in a low-moderate area census tract, serving a low or moderate clientele and providing jobs to low-moderate individuals.
- in need of short-term working capital to avoid job loss caused by business closures related to social distancing
- in need of working capital to retain jobs held by low- and moderate-income persons
Businesses that received a microgrant in early May are eligible and do not need to apply separately. However, if they receive another award, the previous award will be subtracted from this DHCD award amount.
Prohibitive Businesses
- Liquor, tobacco stores, cannabis dispensaries, adult entertainment, banks, financial services and e-commerce or seasonal businesses
Get information about what documentation you need at coronavirus.dc.gov. Apply for DHCD East of River Grant before 10 a.m. Friday, May 29.
