Broward County is set to pump some much-needed cash into the veins of its small business community with the launch of a Micro-Grant Pilot Program, tossing a financial lifeline to those struggling to keep their heads above water. According to county officials, these micro-grants, amounting to a cool $2,500 each, will be divvied up equally among each commission district, serving up financial aid on a speedy first come, first served basis.
Applications for the grants are set to roll out online come May, but don't be slacking; they demand completion with all documents in tow – don’t even think about partials, for they won't even glimpse in their direction. Broward’s bigwigs are also doling out a helping hand, er, session, for those scratching their heads over the process: there's a free virtual technical assistance gig on the calendar for May 15 from 10-11AM, and those who prefer the warmth of human company can hit up the Governmental Center East for an in-person session May 20 from 1-2PM.
Once granted, businesses can funnel these funds into various operational costs – think inventory stocking, marketing maneuvers, and equipment upgrades – but don't you dare try to cover payroll or late fees with it, those are big no-no's. For the full rundown of what's kosher and what’s not in the world of micro-grant spending, entrepreneurs are directed to the county’s Micro-Grant webpage.
"I am thrilled to support the Small Business Micro-Grant Pilot Program which will provide vital working capital to small businesses in our community," beamed Broward County Commissioner Hazelle P. Rogers, while the man helming the Office of Economic and Small Business Development, Sandy-Michael E. McDonald, emphasized, "Every business is important to us because of the important role they play in the economic development of Broward County," underscoring the county’s eagerness to back these businesses to the hilt. For the nitty-gritty on this godsend of a program – from eligibility right down to the technicalities of application.
The Office of Economic and Small Business Development isn't just about dangling grant money though, they're a veritable beehive of activity aimed at jacking up Broward County's economic muscle, tending to everything from enticing outside businesses to fostering local startups, and even shining a spotlight on Broward as a hot film location, to find out more or follow their exploits look them up online, or through their social media handles on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and YouTube.
