The Statewide Small Business Assistance (SBA) program recently awarded $4.5 million in COVID-19 relief funding to 258 small businesses in and around the 2nd Senate District.
Grants range from $5,000 to $50,000.
“Pennsylvania businesses and their employees have worked very hard and made many sacrifices that have enabled the Commonwealth to reduce the spread of COVID-19,” state Sen. Christine Tartaglione (D-Northeast Philadelphia) said. “As they continue their difficult reopening process, it is crucial that we provide them with resources to catch up financially and to operate safely moving forward.”
The businesses are among more than 4,100 statewide that received grants.
The General Assembly created the $225 million program in May through the PA CARES legislation. The program provides funding to businesses in rural areas, revitalization areas, and areas experiencing high population loss, high unemployment rates, high poverty rates, or low median incomes. Funding is also provided to businesses owned by low- or moderate-income individuals, women or minorities, and businesses operating in industries most affected by the pandemic.
Businesses must complete a verification process.
Community Development Financial Institutions administer the program.
Statewide, $76.8 million in SBA grants have been distributed or received final approval for distribution. Of the total, $16 million was distributed or received final approval in Philadelphia.