District 5 launches the 2021 Mom and Pop Small Business Grant Program
With all the hardship that this year brought upon small business owners, Commissioner Eileen Higgins devised a program to show her support. On March, 17th, 2021, the Commissioner was joined by representatives of economic development, small business owners, and the nonprofit Prospera, to announce the 2021 District 5 Mom and Pop Small Business Grant Program.
This was a very exciting event for many that took place at Josefina’s Beauty Salon, which is located in 1903 West Flagler St, Miami, FL 33135. Those that qualify for this year’s program will be awarded up to $5,000 to pay rent, purchase equipment, supplies, inventory, advertising/marketing, and all other necessities. In addition, these business owners will join the District 5 business network, giving them access to free resources, workshops, and training.
“This year’s Mom and Pop grant program will continue to show all business owners, from the peluquería in West Flagler to the dry cleaner in South Beach, that they are not alone,” said Commissioner Higgins.
Previously, Commissioner Higgins had created the Retail Relief Small Business Grant Program that provided restaurants and retail stores forced to shut down in District 5 $78,000. However, this year, the program has expanded to include independent contractors and home-based businesses.
Higgins truly believes in the power of small businesses and hopes that this program provides some relief. “Mom and pops are the backbone of our economy, and they’ve done their part to keep their doors open, keep staff employed, and adapt to the challenges of this new normal,” she said.
If you would like to apply to receive the benefits of the program, you will need to fill out an application. The application process opened on March 22nd, 2021 (apply here). The application period will close on Friday, April 9th, 2021, at 5:00 pm. To submit your application, you must email the completed form to SmallBusinessD5@MiamiDade.gov.
“I am extremely grateful to Commissioner Higgins and the District 5 team for how they have treated and helped me. They always answer my questions and assist me in everything I need,” said Ms. Josefina Perez, owner of Josefina’s Beauty Salon. “The Mom and Pop and Retail Relief programs have been a very important and necessary help. My business was heavily affected by the construction of Flagler Street and then by COVID-19, so the help they gave us was really needed. Commissioner Eileen has always cared and worked with us like family.”
If you would like to learn more about the specifics of the program before applying, be sure to join in their information sessions. These will be given in both English and Spanish at the following times:
- Tuesday, March 23, 6:00 pm
- Wednesday, March 24, 10:00 am
To keep up with what is going on in District 5 Government, be sure to check out their website and follow Commissioner Eileen Higgins on Instagram.
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