New Grant Program Launched In Frederick

It’s for small minority & women-owned businesses.

Frederick, Md (KM) Frederick City’s Department of Economic Development has started a new program called ACCESS GRANTED. The city says this grant program specifically supports and empowers small minority and women- owned businesses by providing access to capital.

$400,000 has been set aside for this new program. The money comes from the Coronavirus Local and State Fiscal Recovery Funds program authorized by the American Rescue Plan Act.

The City’s Department of Economic Development says its goals are to promote a supportive and inclusive business environment so that business owners can reach their full potential. “We are thrilled to introduce the ACCESS GRANTED program as a vital step toward creating a more equitable and thriving business community in Frederick,” says Richard Griffin, the Director of the Department of Economic Development, in a statement..

Business owners interested in applying for this program are encouraged to carefully read the eligibility requirements and participate in a virtual public information session which will be held on July 23rd from 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM. To find out more information on ACCESS GRANTED, go to https://businessfrederick.co/249/ACCESSGRANTED.

The application period for ACCESS GRANTED began on Monday, July 15th at 11:00 AM. It will close at 5:00 PM on August 12th, 2024.

“Minority and women-owned businesses historically have faced systemic barriers that have prevented them from securing the financial resources to help them grow and thrive,” says Mayor Michael O’Connor, in a statement. “ACCESS GRANTED aims to create equal opportunities by injecting a total of $400,000 directly into our local economy for businesses that have historically been overlooked and marginalized, ensuring they have the resources to thrive alongside their peers. ACCESS GRANTED is not just a grant program. It’s a statement of values of equity and economic justice.”

By Kevin McManus