COVID-19 Small Business Support Program Kicks Off Today

In response to COVID-19’s impact on Irvine’s small businesses the City is launching a grant program starting today. Qualified businesses can apply for one-time grants in the amount of $10,000. The city’s press release can be found here: https://www.cityofirvine.org/news-media/news-article/covid-19-small-business-support-program-grant-application

The application period opens today Wednesday, June 3, 2020 and close at 5 p.m. on Tuesday, June 30, 2020. Complete applications will be reviewed for eligibility immediately and applicants will be notified of decision within four business days. Grants will be awarded on a first-come, first-served basis to eligible businesses. For details on the program click here. The grant application can be obtained here.

Funding for the Local Business Support Program comes from a $5 million grant from the County of Orange, through the federally approved CARES Act.

To qualify, businesses must:

  •  Have 25 or fewer employees,
  •  Have an active Irvine business license at the minimum of one year,
  •  Demonstrate a financial impact due to COVID-19
  •  Have reopened or are ready to reopen by July 1st

The grant funds may only be used to cover credible business expenses related to COVID-19, such as purchase of personal protective equipment, payroll, capital, equipment, and operational costs. meeting guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control, the State and Orange County.

For technical assistance with submittal of applications, please call 949-724-6280 or email [email protected] during City business hours.