The City of Delray Beach is reaching out to local small businesses with an offer to help boost the local economy and support job growth. Up to $680,000 in Urban Development Action Grant (UDAG) funding is available to assist microenterprises in their economic pursuits. A press release published yesterday, by the city details the initiative, inviting submissions for grants that provide a maximum of $35,000 per job created. Under the terms of the grant, businesses with five or fewer workers, including the owner, can apply, with the ambition to foster employment opportunities for low-to-moderate income individuals.
Eligible businesses looking to secure a piece of the UDAG pie must submit their applications by the September 30 deadline. Awaiting successful applicants are funds that can be utilized for various expenditures, ranging from salaries and payroll for job creation to the retention of existing employees. However, each business must thoroughly meet the eligibility criteria, a meticulous process equipped to ensure grants are awarded fairly and to truly deserving parties. Grant amounts will not to exceed $35,000, subject to the funds' availability, as per the program's detailed guidelines.
The city has established clear guidelines on how the funds can be used and who qualifies. To be eligible, businesses must be categorized as "microenterprises," benefitting low-to-moderate income persons as defined by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). Furthermore, businesses are required to hold an active Delray Beach Business Tax Receipt, or Palm Beach County Business Tax Receipt if applicable. The City of Delray Beach has the complete application checklist and instructions.
Applicants are urged to prepare the necessary documents in advance to ensure a smooth application process through the City of Delray Beach Neighborhood Services Page. Required documentation varies depending on the type of business entity, and may include income tax returns, payroll forms, an active business tax receipt, lease agreements, bank statements, and certification of household income for employees retained under the program. The specific details concerning these requirements can be found on the city's official application page.
For businesses considering entering the fray, the City of Delray Beach has committed to reviewing submissions on a first-come, first-serve basis, as the funds are capped and possibly uncapped demand. The program aids not just in job creation but aligns with the city's broader goal of strengthening its economic infrastructure from the ground up. Any further inquiries regarding the grant can be directed to [email protected]. Office hours for Neighborhood Services staff run from Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
