The Portsmouth Economic Development Authority (EDA) is seeking applications for its Smart Start Business Development Grants to provide financial support for new and recently established startups and small businesses to assist with expanding entrepreneurial opportunity, business resiliency, and organizational capacity building.
Donor Name: Portsmouth Economic Development Authority
State: Virginia
City: Portsmouth
Type of Grant: Grant
Deadline: 10/31/2023
Size of the Grant: $2,000
Details:
The Portsmouth Economic Development Authority (EDA) supports the City’s growing entrepreneurship and small business community through the Business Investment Grant program.
The Smart Start Business Development Grant is funded entirely by the Portsmouth Economic Development Authority (EDA).
Funding Information
The maximum grant amount available for any approved application is $2,000.
Eligible Activities
- Professional and third-party services to assist in starting a business including legal, financial, accounting, marketing, social media, e-commerce, etc.
- Small scale production/manufacturing equipment, machinery, tools, etc.
- Technology and digital infrastructure (hardware, software, digital platforms, etc.)
- Business furniture and fixtures
Eligibility Criteria
New and recently established for-profit small businesses and non-profit organizations with operations based in the City of Portsmouth.
- Available to businesses that have been in operation for 0-3 years (as evidenced by a City of Portsmouth business license)
- Available to businesses with 10 full-time equivalent (FTE) or fewer positions
- Available to businesses that are current with City of Portsmouth taxes and fees
- Entities of local, state, or federal government, religious organizations, and residential-use businesses are prohibited from applying
Additional Guidelines
- Recipients of the Smart Start Business Development Grant may only receive funding one time under the program. No more than two grant applications may be submitted per business principal within a five-year period.
- Grant funds must be expended within 90 days of award
- Completion of the Santa Clara University’s My Own Business Plan Institute (MOBI) online course or provide documentation of completion of an approved equivalent certification course
Ineligible Activities
- Wages, benefits, payroll expenses
- Rent, debt service
- Operating costs (utilities, insurance, etc.)
- Real estate improvements
- Supplies and inventory
- Residential-use furniture
- Decorative items (wall art, decor, etc.)
For more information, visit EDA.