San Joaquin County officials have authorized the Spark Relief Grant Program for Small Business Assistance, utilizing American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding. This program, said officials, will play a vital role in fostering economic recovery and resilience within local communities. Despite showing remarkable resilience, small businesses are still vulnerable, grappling with increased operational costs, reduced revenue streams and workforce challenges.

“The pandemic hit our small businesses especially hard, negatively impacting the livelihoods of both business owners and their employees. The County sponsored several programs aimed at assisting our local small businesses during the past few years, and the Spark Relief Grant Program presents another opportunity we are proud to offer,” said District 5 Supervisor Robert Rickman, who represents Escalon on the county board.

The Spark Relief Grant offers utility reimbursements of up to $5,000 to help businesses located anywhere in San Joaquin County recover from the financial impacts of COVID-19.

Qualifications for businesses are:

Operates out of a commercial storefront with fewer than 50 employees;

In operation prior to Jan. 1, 2020;

Holds an active business license;

In good standing with local, state, and federal regulations;

Has experienced financial hardship due to COVID-19.

Eligible businesses can receive reimbursements for electricity, natural gas, propane, water, sewer, garbage, phone, or internet expenses incurred since Jan. 1, 2022.

For more details or to apply, contact sparkgrant@sjcworknet.org or, visit https://ndc.smapply.io/prog/sjc_spark_relief_grant/.