Eligible Murrieta businesses will have the opportunity to apply for grants of up to $10,000 thanks to a program approved by the Murrieta City Council forming a $250,000 grant program.
The grants will be issued on a first-come, first-served basis, according to a press release issued by the city, and pre-applications will be accepted starting at 9 a.m. Monday, June 8, at www.MurrietaCA.gov/businessgrants.
“These grants give one more tool to help bring back the local economy,” Murrieta Mayor Gene Wunderlich said. “Our businesses are truly struggling. It is going to take a strong, multifaceted approach to get them back on their feet. As they face required modification due to COVID-19, access to small grants can provide what they need to open quickly and safely.”
The city said that “funding for the Back-to-Business grant program comes from re-programmed Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds to benefit low-and moderate-income individuals.”
According to the press release, eligibility requires that more than half of a business’ employees must have incomes at or below 80% of the local median income. Currently, that is $40,250 for a family of one, $57,450 for a family of four. Businesses must also have 15 or fewer employees and show a need for funding.
In addition to the Back-to-Business Grant program, small businesses in Murrieta can apply for micro-loans through the city’s partnership with Riverside County. These loans can be forgivable and are available for businesses with fewer than 25 employees. The city’s Economic Development staff is also available to work with local businesses navigating federal and state support.
For more information on the city’s small business grant and county loan programs, visit www.MurrietaCA.gov/businessgrants, email smallbusinessgrant@MurrietaCA.gov or call Scott Agajanian at 951-461-6003.
