Bellevue Offers Rent Relief For Small Businesses, Arts Nonprofits

BELLEVUE, WA — The city of Bellevue will offer a combined $500,000 to help eligible small businesses and arts nonprofits that have fallen behind in rental payments. The Bellevue City Council authorized the grants funded by American Rescue Plan Act money, which will be available to approved organizations in amounts between $2,500 and $15,000, officials said Monday.

"Bellevue's small businesses and arts organizations are the economic and cultural pillars of our community, so the city has instituted a number of programs to help them stay afloat during COVID-19, said Bellevue Mayor Lynne Robinson. "This latest program gives them a chance to succeed without the fear of eviction or the burden of overwhelming rental debt."

To be eligible for a Commercial Rental Relief Grant, businesses must have between two and 25 employees, annual revenue under $5 million, and back rent due between March 1, 2020, and Aug. 31, 2021. Landlords must agree to participate in the program, and payments will go directly to them as a credit toward the total lease arrears.

The application window opened Monday and closes Sunday, Oct. 10. The city anticipates high demand for the grants and will choose winners through a lottery system. However, priority will be assigned to businesses and organizations in the "personal services, health and wellness, and creative economy sectors," officials said.

The latest program follows $660,000 in grants provided to businesses and arts organizations in 2020. Learn more about the program and how to apply on the city's website.