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FAQs About Small Business + Entrepreneurial Recovery Grants

What is the City of Albuquerque Small Business and Entrepreneurial Recovery Grant?

The City of Albuquerque Economic Development Department and the Small Business Office have created a new recovery grant program covering the following business sectors:

    • Family-Owned Business Grants
    • Mainstreet Business Grants
    • Hotels & Public Safety Grants
    • Arts & Entertainment Business Grants
    • Youth & Education Grants
    • Entrepreneurial & Start-Up Grants

The program's mission will be to stimulate local economic activity, and growth for Albuquerque’s economy, with $7.5 million provided by the American Rescue Plan Act, through one-time grants in the amount of $10,000. 

When can small businesses apply for the grant?

City of Albuquerque small businesses can apply for the grant beginning August 4, 2021, at 10 a.m. Applications will remain open until grants are fully subscribed.

How will the program be funded?

The program will be funded by utilizing $7.5 million of the City’s allocated American Rescue Plan Act funds.

How much can a small business receive through this program?

One-time grants will be available to small businesses located in the City of Albuquerque in the amount of $10,000. An applicant may apply for more than one grant if the businesses meet criteria for multiple grant categories, but only one grant will be awarded per applicant.

If I received other relief grant funding, can I still qualify for the ARPA funding grants?

Yes.

How can a small business use the grant fund?

The program will offer one-time grants of $10,000 to qualifying small businesses to cover operating expenses, payroll, permitting, business equipment purchases, business mortgage obligations, business rent, lease payments, surveillance and security improvements, and utility expenditures. For Hotel & Public Safety Grants may be used for safety and security improvements, such as fencing, security cameras, and secure access. 

The grant cannot be used for back-owed taxes, liens, or unpaid code enforcement fines.

How will the Economic Development Department choose which businesses receive funding among those that qualify?

Upon successful completion of the application, the grantees will be awarded on a first come, first serve basis unless the grants are oversubscribed. The City of Albuquerque Economic Development Department reserves the right to change the program process as it sees fit. Operating expenses do not include back-owed taxes, liens, or unpaid code enforcement fines.

Are there any businesses not eligible to apply for this grant?

Ineligible businesses include:

  • Businesses with more than 50 full-time (or equivalent) employees (two part-time employees count as one)
  • Businesses located outside the City of Albuquerque
  • Businesses without a current business registration with the City of Albuquerque, and business that were in operation after July 15, 2021
  • Businesses that sell, produce, manufacture, or distribute any marijuana or cannabis products are not eligible for the grant program

What happens after an application is turned in?

Once an application is turned in, it will enter an internal review process. Grant Officers will be working with businesses, checking the application for eligibility, and document verification. Once complete, it will enter a secondary review for final decision. 

If you have additional questions or need assistance with your grant application, please email [email protected] or call 505-768-3270.