OEWD outlines grant opportunities for small businesses in underserved communities

The San Francisco County government meeting on July 4, 2025, focused on the ongoing support for small businesses affected by the pandemic, highlighting new grant initiatives and the importance of equitable recovery efforts.

During the meeting, officials discussed the criteria for a new grant program aimed at assisting small businesses with financial needs. The program now allows businesses with two or more employees to apply, expanding eligibility beyond the previous limit of five or fewer employees. This change aims to support long-standing community businesses that have been job generators, particularly those that have operated for over 15 years.

As of the meeting, 809 applications had been received for the grant program, with funding available for up to 1,430 applicants. The review process is set to begin after the application period closes on May 7, with hopes to distribute funds by June. The meeting also revealed that 80% of applicants are minority-owned, 50% are immigrant-owned, and 51% are women-owned, indicating a strong representation of diverse businesses seeking support.

Additionally, the meeting announced the release of awardees from the Dream Keeper Initiative, which allocated $3.7 million to support Black-owned businesses. This initiative aims to provide technical assistance and resources to enhance the presence of cultural events and strengthen commercial corridors.

Officials emphasized the need for ongoing community involvement as they transition to permanent strategies for business support. Discussions included potential increases in funding for neighborhood investments and efforts to address disparities in grant distribution, particularly in underrepresented districts.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to enhance outreach and support for businesses that have faced barriers in accessing funding, ensuring that all communities benefit from recovery efforts.