71 total recipients awarded $10,000 and $5,000 grants in small business assistance grants
INDIO – The city of Indio has awarded 71 eligible businesses grants totaling $645,000 as part of its Small Business Emergency Assistance Program (SBEAP).
Some 58 storefront businesses received $10,000 grants, and 13 daycare providers received $5,000 grants. More than 140 storefront businesses and daycare providers applied during the 10-day window.
“This was the very first type of financial assistance that I received, and I’m very happy,” Diana Hernandez, owner of Diana’s Notary, Process Serve & Interpreting, said in a prepared statement. Hernandez has owned a business in Indio for 12 years, and was emotional when she picked up her check from City Hall.
“We were closed for the month of April last year, and it has been challenging trying to keep social distancing. (This grant) makes me feel like the City of Indio appreciates my business,” added Hernandez. She said she plans to use the funds to catch up on rent and purchase a new computer for her company.
Applications were considered on a first-come first-served basis and had to meet eligibility criteria such as being located in Indio, having a current business license, and proof of financial impact due to COVID-19. Grant money was allocated from the City’s general fund.
“We were glad to be able to do what we could to help those who were hurt because of the closures caused by the pandemic,” Mayor Elaine Holmes said in a prepared statement. “We are hopeful to do more in the future, as we know so many people are still suffering the economic effects of COVID-19.”
If additional funding is made available from the City of Indio, details will provided at that time
Image Sources
- Vanessa Castillo Adriana Mendoza SBEAP: City of Indio