At the April 7 City Council meeting, Council authorized up to $500,000 to be allocated towards the Lafayette COVID-19 Small Business Emergency Relief Grant Program. This program, in collaboration with the Lafayette Urban Renewal Authority (LURA), is intended to provide short-term bridge funding for Lafayette small businesses who are seeking relief options as part of a larger strategy for business recovery and sustainability. Businesses in good standing, with two or more employees and a brick-and-mortar presence in Lafayette, may apply for up to $10,000 to cover operating expenses.

“Small businesses are vital to the success and character of the Lafayette community,” said Mayor Jamie Harkins. “Not only do these establishments provide important tax revenue to support city services, they energize our community’s identity, enhance community involvement, and stimulate the creation of local jobs. We want to help our businesses ride out these difficult times and be in a position to quickly re-open their doors as soon as public health orders are lifted.”

LURA is contributing up to $200,000 of the available funding which will be dedicated for grants to businesses operating within the Old Town Revitalization Area. “The COVID-19 pandemic is causing unprecedented challenges for everyone,” said LURA Chair Kevin Muller. “It’s gratifying to know that LURA’s support will help protect the vitality of Old Town and prop up the resiliency of our much-loved restaurants, shops, breweries, and service providers.”

Businesses located in Lafayette are invited to submit an application beginning on April 15. Additional details about the program and the online application are available at cityoflafayette.com/SmallBiz 

¿Tiene usted preguntas? Llame al teléfono de apoyos económicos de emergencia al 303-775-9018 o contacte apoyos económicos en línea.