Dec 5 / JOSHUA BOTELLO

Economic Opportunity Holiday Grants

Economic Opportunity Holiday Grants

Dec 5 / JOSHUA BOTELLO

The holiday season is a time for giving, and this year, Los Angeles County is stepping up to support small businesses and nonprofits that have weathered the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. Through the Economic Opportunity Holiday Grants program, eligible organizations can receive financial assistance to help them recover, grow, and thrive. With grants of $3,000 or $5,000 available, this program offers a lifeline for those who continue to play a vital role in their communities. If your business or nonprofit has been struggling to regain its footing, now is the time to take advantage of this critical opportunity.

Funded by the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), the initiative will distribute over $500,000, with applications opening on Small Business Saturday, November 30, 2024, at 9 AM and closing on Tuesday, December 31, 2024, at 5 PM.

Who Is Eligible?

To qualify, businesses and nonprofits must meet specific criteria designed to prioritize organizations still recovering from pandemic-related disruptions.

Operational Requirements:
 - Operating Timeline: Businesses must have been in operation before December 30, 2021, as evidenced by business licenses or other government filings.
 - Current Status: Applicants must be currently active and operating.

Compliance Requirements:
 - Businesses and nonprofits must be in good standing with local, state, and federal taxing and licensing authorities.
 - Grantees must not have previously received a COVID-19 recovery grant funded by ARPA from any local government agency, including the City or County of Los Angeles, or the California Small Business COVID-19 Relief Grant Program.

Location Requirements:
 - Businesses must operate from a brick-and-mortar storefront in Los Angeles County.
 - Nonprofits must operate from an office or commercial space and provide services Countywide.
 - Home-based businesses and nonprofits operating from a residence are not eligible.

Ineligible Businesses

Certain business types are not eligible for funding, including:
 - Publicly traded companies and corporate-owned franchises.
 - Financial institutions (e.g., banks, lenders, insurance companies).
 - Private or social clubs.
 - Pawn shops, astrology or palm reading services, and liquor stores.
 - Businesses presenting live performances of a sexual nature.
 - Businesses engaged in activities violating state or federal laws (e.g., marijuana-related sales).
 - Partisan political organizations or lobbying firms.
 - Gun or ammunition stores.
 - Businesses primarily involved in gambling.
 - Organizations debarred or suspended under U.S. law.
 - Businesses owned by individuals under 18 years of age.

How Can the Funds Be Used?

Grant funds are intended to help recipients address operational and recovery needs, including:
 - Purchasing new equipment or technology.
 - Covering payroll expenses.
 - Renewing or applying for local permits.
 - Paying down pandemic-related debt.
 - Managing outstanding expenses like rent or supplier payments.
 - Supporting working capital for ongoing operations.

Application Process

Applications will be accepted from November 30, 2024, to December 31, 2024. 

 - Applicants must submit the following documentation:
 - Business license or similar government filings.
 - 2019 tax return and one additional tax return from 2020, 2021, 2022, or 2023.
 - Identification documents, such as a government-issued photo ID.
 - Supporting business documentation (e.g., W-9 forms, bank statements).
 - Nonprofits must provide an IRS determination letter verifying 501(c) status.
 - Applicants must also pledge to support small businesses at shoplocal.la and provide evidence of financial impact due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Important Details

Funding is limited, and meeting eligibility criteria does not guarantee an award. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, with priority given to businesses in high-need areas identified using the County’s Equity Explorer Mapping Tool. Grants will be distributed starting in February 2025.

Final Thoughts

The Economic Opportunity Holiday Grants program offers a vital opportunity for Los Angeles County’s small businesses and nonprofits to recover and thrive after pandemic-related challenges. By addressing operational costs, debt, and recovery needs, this funding can help recipients make meaningful progress.

If you meet the eligibility requirements, gather your documentation, take the pledge at shoplocal.la, and apply before the December 31 deadline. These grants are more than financial support—they are a chance to rebuild and strengthen your organization for the future.
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