The City of Atlantic City is now accepting applications for its Small Business Micro Grant Program, made possible through over $400,000 in federal funding from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA). This initiative is designed to support small, for-profit businesses located within city limits that were negatively impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.

 

Each Eligible business can receive grants of up to $15,000 to help recover from financial hardship, retain jobs, and build long-term resiliency. For existing businesses, this grant includes a reimbursement-based program. Funds can be used for pandemic-related costs like payroll, rent, mortgage, utilities, equipment, inventory, and other operational costs incurred between March 3, 2021 and October 1, 2023. Startups and newer businesses established in 2022 or later may also be eligible.

 

 

To qualify, businesses must:

Startups must submit a current business plan and a narrative explaining the impact of COVID-19 on their operations.

 

 

Applications will be reviewed by city staff on a rolling basis. Early submission is encouraged. Full program guidelines, including instructions on how to submit your application, are available here, or can be picked up at City Hall (1301 Bacharach Boulevard, Room 506). For questions, or to determine eligibility for specific expenses, businesses are encouraged to contact Bruce Weekes at bweekes@acnj.gov or 609-347-5544. Applicants picking up materials in person are asked to reach out to Bruce Weekes ahead of their arrival.