DEVELOPMENT BUSINESS Erik Thorvig, Community Development Director
Title
AMENDMENTS TO THE SMALL BUSINESS GRANT PROGRAM
Background
On August 3, 2020, the city council adopted criteria for the small business grant program that utilizes CARES dollars to assist businesses impacted by COVID-19. The grant program is separated into two different funding rounds; the first round closed on September 4.
After reviewing the applications, there are several proposed changes to the criteria that is recommended. They are:
1. Allowing sole-proprietors as an eligible applicant.
2. Allowing non-profit organizations as an eligible applicant.
3. Allowing businesses that primarily derive income from tobacco products as an eligible applicant.
4. Waiving the 50 employee maximum requirement for non-profits.
The round two application window will open on September 21 and close on October 2.
Recommendation
Adopt the attached resolution amending the criteria for the small business grant program.
Body
WHEREAS, the Blaine City Council approved criteria for a small business grant program for businesses impact by COVID-19 on August 2, 2020; and
WHEREAS, there are two application rounds; and
WHEREAS, the first round of applications closed on September 4 and changes to the criteria are recommended based on the applications received.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Blaine City Council hereby approves changes to the small business grant program that:
1. Allow sole-proprietors as an eligible applicant.
2. Allow non-profit organizations as an eligible applicant.
3. Allow businesses that primarily derive income from tobacco products as an eligible applicant.
4. Waiving the 50 employee maximum for non-profits.
PASSED by the City Council of the City of Blaine this 21st day of September, 2020.