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Locally owned, independent businesses in Grandview can apply for a new round of pandemic-related aid.
Grandview will distribute $150,000 to small businesses through the federal American Savings Plan Act. Businesses can apply for grants of up to $10,000.
Grandview Mayor Gloria Mendoza said the money will help the city support its businesses and build relationships between city government, businesses and community members. The city said it received six applications on the first day.
“This is an exciting time for businesses,” Mendoza said. “We’re glad people are taking advantage of these opportunities.”
Small businesses that have been negatively impacted by the outbreak are eligible, according to the program’s guidelines. Among the listed negative impacts are reduced revenue, lack of financial security, challenges covering operational costs and additional costs, among others.
Mendoza said city council members have carefully crafted the requirements businesses must meet. There should be less than 30 employees including the owner. Businesses must be licensed to operate in Grandview and located in Grandview. They should not face any litigation or legal action. Interested businesses cannot be franchisees and must have been in operation since May 2022.
Still, Mendoza faces a tough election process.
“It won’t be easy, I can tell you that,” she said.
The grant winners are ultimately selected by the Yakima County Development Association, Mendoza said. The City of Grandview collects and advertises the applications, but the YCDA ensures an independent final review. Mendoza said the city has previously worked with YCDA to distribute ARPA funds.
If community demand is high, Mendoza would like to see the program grow.
“We know the epidemic has been severe,” she said. “We know they’ve worked through it and opened doors for the community.”
The mayor added that the city took time to coordinate this process. ARPA was approved in March 2021. City officials sent out a survey to residents to determine the best way to use the $3 million fund. Mendoza said small business owners have indicated a strong need for rent and mortgage assistance and employee assistance, which led to Grandview’s decision to create these supports.
Small businesses have until Oct. 10 at 5 p.m. Applications are available online, in person at Grandview City Hall or emailed to City Treasurer Matthew Cordray at mattc@grandview.wa.us.
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