Created: 10 February 2022
Launch of New Grant Product is Designed to Support Long-Term Recovery of Small Businesses
The New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) announced plans to open applications for its Small Business Improvement Grant on Thursday, February 10. The Small Business Improvement Grant is the second of several products the NJEDA is launching under the Main Street Recovery Program, to help small businesses become more resilient and position themselves for growth.
Funded with $15 million, this product will reimburse eligible small businesses and nonprofits for up to 50 percent of eligible project costs associated with building improvements or the purchase and/or installation of new furniture, fixtures, and equipment (FFE) made on or after March 9, 2020, but no more than two years prior to application. The maximum grant award will be $50,000 per business entity for the life of this program.
To be eligible, work must be completed on or after March 9, 2020, but no more than two years prior to application date. Applicants must provide documentation proving payment was made for completed work (e.g. invoices, statements, payments, and/or cancelled checks.)
Applicants must also commit to remaining in the facility and meeting wage requirements for up to four years following the execution of the grant agreement and depending upon award amount. Awards greater than $25,000 will have a compliance period of four years and grant awards less than $25,000 will have a compliance period of two years.
Businesses and nonprofits that receive funding through the Small Business Lease Grant or Small Business Improvement Grant are required to agree to pay employees going forward for the grant term the greater of $15 per hour or 120 percent of the minimum wage. Tipped employees must be paid at least 120 percent of the minimum wage. For more information on wage compliance for the Main Street products please visit https://www.njeda.com/main-street-recovery-fund/.
