News and Funding Opportunities for Small Businesses
SBDC News
Lackawannamarkets.com
In response to the COVID-19 crisis, Anthracite Events and Lackawanna County Arts and cultural department launched a new local online shopping initiative in June 2020. Lackawanna Market's goal is to create an online community emphasizing shopping local and supporting creative and small businesses throughout Northeastern PA. Lackawanna Markets serves as an exclusive directory and showcase for NEPA artists, creators and small businesses. Visit Lackawanna Markets to learn more and sign up for the showcase!
Funding & Assistance Opportunities
SBA Announces Restaurant Revitalization Fund Grant will Open in April
The new Restaurant Revitalization Fund, part of the recently passed American Rescue Plan Act, will provide $28.6 billion in grants to restaurants and bars in need. The RRF will offer $28.6 billion in grants to hard-hit restaurants and bars, with restaurants able to apply for grants based on lost revenue. Additionally, $5 billion of that total will be set aside expressly for businesses with 2019 gross receipts of less than $500,000.
Frequently Asked Questions (.pdf)
The Shuttered Venue Operators Grant to Open on April 8, 2021
The Shuttered Venue Operators Grant (SVOG) program was established by the Economic Aid to Hard-Hit Small Businesses, Nonprofits, and Venues Act, and amended by the American Rescue Plan Act. The program includes more than $16 billion in grants to shuttered venues, to be administered by SBA’s Office of Disaster Assistance.
Eligible applicants may qualify for grants equal to 45% of their gross earned revenue, with the maximum amount available for a single grant award of $10 million. $2 billion is reserved for eligible applications with up to 50 full-time employees.
- Live venue operators or promoters.
- Theatrical producers.
- Live performing arts organization operators.
- Relevant museum operators, zoos and aquariums who meet specific criteria.
- Motion picture theater operators.
- Talent representatives.
- Each business entity owned by an eligible entity that also meets the eligibility requirements.