SLO County software company offers $75,000 to help local businesses hurt by coronavirus
A new fund aimed at helping San Luis Obispo County small businesses hurt by the COVID-19 pandemic is now accepting applications for financial relief.
Grant applications for the SLO County Small Business Relief Fund opened Thursday.
Comevo, a technology company that specializes in online orientation software, is providing $75,000 in immediate funding to local businesses impacted by the coronavirus pandemic and closures, according to a news release.
“We feel so lucky to call San Luis Obispo home and our small businesses are key to this community’s character, economic renewal and ongoing success,” Comevo CEO Scott Machado said in a news release. “Comevo is committed to supporting our community through the long road ahead and we hope these grants not only provide direct, immediate aid but also inspire others to imagine how they might step up and support one another in this time.”
Applicants can get grants of $5,000 or more. The money can be used to “fill immediate financial gaps until they can resume normal operations, or until other more permanent financing becomes available,” according to the release.
The fund is currently funded solely by Comevo, but the San Luis Obispo Chamber of Commerce is asking other larger businesses to consider joining in to support their fellows.
According to the release, a recent chamber survey showed 80% of local businesses surveyed said cash flow was their No. 1 need at this time.
“So, when Comevo came to us with this incredible idea, we couldn’t pass up the opportunity to help make a difference for some of the doers and dreamers who are the lifeblood of our county,” San Luis Obispo Chamber CEO Jim Dantona said in the release. “We are grateful to have partners like Comevo who understand the significant role small businesses and their leaders play in our community’s vibrance.”
Who qualifies for grant money and how to apply
The application window closes May 14 at midnight. All businesses who meet the eligibility requirements — not just San Luis Obispo Chamber members — are encouraged to apply.
To be eligible, you must be a for-profit business owned and operated in San Luis Obispo County and have fewer than 200 employees. Businesses that have been continuously been closed since the shelter-at-home order will be given preference.
Recipients will be notified on May 19.
For more information or to apply, visit https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSd7uHf_3rvf0QXos7ohh3IyRDtyLp5JA3Ef7YgDIKk2AgVCiA/viewform.
If you wish to donate to the SLO County Small Business Relief Fund, contact Kaila Anderson at kaila@slochamber.org.
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