PA Small Businesses Suffering From Shutdowns Can Apply For Grants

PENNSYLVANIA — Small businesses around Pennsylvania suffering from the coronavirus shutdowns are being offered a bit of relief in the form of a state grant program.

A total of $225 million is being made available through the COVID-19 Relief Statewide Small Business Assistance program. The application period opens up on Tuesday, June 30.

Individual businesses can receive anywhere from $5,000 to $50,000 in grants. The funding for the program comes from the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act.

“In unprecedented times, like those we are currently facing, collaboration is imperative to getting help to those who need it most, as quickly and effectively as possible,” Gov. Wolf said in a statement. “This joint effort between my administration, the legislature, and The Pennsylvania CDFI Network will provide critical assistance to Pennsylvania’s small businesses, putting them on better financial footing as they begin to reopen.”

The first application window will remain open for 10 days, officials said. Money can be used to cover operating expenses during the shutdown, costs of reopening, and training programs and guidance for owners.

There are three separate programs which applicants can apply through: the Main Street Business Revitalization Program, the Historically Disadvantaged Business Revitalization Program, and the Loan Payment Deferment and Loss Reserve Program.

The Main Street program has $100 million earmarked specifically for businesses that lost money due to the shutdown. The Historically Disadvantaged program has another $100 million for small businesses owned by socially or economically disadvantaged individuals, and the Loan program will help with forebearance relief and payments owed by businesses.

You can learn more or, beginning June 30, apply here.