Washoe County launches grant program to help local small businesses

Funding available to assist small businesses impacted by COVID-19 with expenses like PPE, utilities, rent and retrofits.

On September 8 Washoe County will begin accepting applications for a small business grant program designed to help businesses deal with the impacts of the COVID-19 Pandemic.

The applications will be accepted through October 6, and grants will be awarded on an as-needed and first-come first-served basis. For details on eligible businesses and funding amounts, and to preview the application, please visit the Nevada Association of Counties website. 

“As a longtime businessman in this community, I have seen firsthand how the entire community is stronger when businesses are strong and employees are doing well,” Washoe Board of County Commission Chairman Bob Lucey said. “This pandemic has caused local businesses to struggle, but as a county, we are committed to supporting our local businesses and helping those in need. I urge small-business owners to look into this grant program. 

You must have a Washoe County business license, or applicable state business license, to be eligible. The County has also partnered with the University of Nevada’s Small Business Development Center to assist businesses with the application process. Request free and confidential assistance at www.nevadasbdc.org or call 800-240-7094 to make an appointment with a counselor through one of their 13 statewide locations.

The funding for this program comes from the federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act. We urge all eligible businesses impacted by COVID-19 to seek grant funding through this program, for further questions please visit the grant application website.

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