SMITHFIELD – The Downtown Smithfield Development Corporation (DSDC) is now accepting applications for the Smithfield Stronger Grant. Created to address the ongoing needs of small, for-profit businesses and discourage vacancies and community deterioration, the Smithfield Stronger Grant is available to businesses within the Downtown Smithfield Municipal Service District to assist with financial needs as a result of lost revenue, support business growth, and improve the overall appearance of Downtown Smithfield.
By repurposing funding originally intended for other programs, the DSDC Board of Directors committed to providing $24,000 to initially fund grants to meet the immediate needs of small businesses that had experienced a significant loss of revenue as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, which resulted in the disruption and temporary closure of many Downtown Smithfield businesses.
The organization awarded $15,000 in grants to five businesses: Gotham’s Deli, Hopkins Carpet, Howell Theatre, Oak City Collection, and Simple Twist. Grants of up to $1,500 will be made under the Smithfield Stronger Grant program with the remaining $9,000.
“The initial Smithfield Strong grant helped to stabilize some businesses, all of which were significantly impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic,” stated Sarah Edwards, DSDC Executive Director. “This second round of funding is intended to encourage business growth and impactful projects to make Downtown Smithfield more vibrant.”
Applications for the Smithfield Stronger Grant are available on the DSDC website. Applications must be submitted by 5:00p.m. on Friday, September 4, 2020. Should funds remain after that date, additional applications may be accepted.
For more information about the Downtown Smithfield Development Corporation and its programs visit www.downtownsmithfield.com.
