Can I apply if I received funds from the California Relief Small Business COVID-19 Grant Program?
No, you may not apply if you received funds from the California Relief Grant Program.
Can I apply if I received funds from the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP)?
Yes, you can apply if you received funds from the Paycheck Protection Program or other pandemic-related grant or loan programs.
I own/operate more than one business. Am I allowed to submit an application for each business I own if they meet the qualifications?
No, you may only apply one time even if you own, co-own, or operate multiple businesses. Only one business will be eligible.
I have multiple locations for a single business, which address should I use?
Please select what you might consider the “primary” business location.
My business has multiple locations. How do I know if I qualify?
Your application answers and financial information must pertain only to any locations in Sacramento County.
Do I have to be a U.S. citizen to apply?
No, you do not need to be a U.S. citizen to apply.
Eligible Use of Funds
If my business receives a grant, what can I use the money for? What can’t I use the money for?
Applicants will be required to self-certify that grant funds will be used for one or more of the following eligible uses:
- The purchase of new certified equipment including, but not limited to, a cart.
- Investment in working capital.
- Application for, or renewal of, a local permit including, but not limited to, a permit to operate as a sidewalk vendor.
- Payment of business debt accrued due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
- Costs resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic and related health and safety restrictions, or business interruptions or closures incurred as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, as defined in subdivision (l) of Section 12100.83.
Do I have to pay the money back, like a loan?
No. The funds you receive are a grant, not a loan, and do not need to be paid back.
Application Process
When does the application open?
The application period opens on October 1st, 2022 at 8am PST.
What’s the deadline to apply?
The application deadline is October 29th, 2022 at 4:59pm PST. Incomplete applications will NOT be accepted. There will be no exceptions.
This is NOT a “first come first served” program, so you can complete your application any time before the deadline.
How do I apply?
Apply here! Note that applications will be accepted beginning April 1.
Do I have to fill out the application online? Can I submit my application via mail or in person?
All applications must be filled out online. No physical applications will be accepted. If you need help accessing a computer with Internet access, please visit your local library for free access.
How can I get help with my application?
If you need assistance, contact us at 833-391-1919 or by clicking here.
What documentation will I need to submit my application?
- A business license; and
- Complete 2019 business tax returns; and
- Sacramento County Payee Data Record Form (available in application); and
- ID verification, such as a photo/scan of a driver’s license, Real ID, or passport, or other TIN identification.
Why do I need to fill out a Sacramento County Payee Data Record Form?
The County is required to report grant funding information to the United States Treasury at the end of the year, which is done using a Payee Data Record Form. This form is required in lieu of IRS W-9 when doing business with the Sacramento County.
Why are you asking for my business tax returns?
Your tax returns allow us to verify that your business is active in Sacramento County; meets the eligibility requirements for revenue; practices sound financial management; and is financially viable.
How do I upload the required documents?
When you get to the upload part of the application, you can search your device for the document you need, and then upload it.
Do I need to submit all the documents? What if I don’t have all the documents that I need to apply?
You must submit ALL the required documents. Incomplete applications will not be considered.
What if I accidentally made a mistake or entered incorrect information on my application?
You can save and edit your application until you submit it. You do not need to complete it all in one sitting. Please take your time on your application and do not submit it until you are sure it is complete and correct.
What is the definition of a woman-, veteran- or minority-owned business?
- For woman-owned: Be at least 51% directly owned and controlled by one or more women.
- For veteran-owned: Be at least 51% directly owned and controlled by one or more veterans.
- For minority-owned: To be certified as a minority-owned business, your company must be at least 51% owned, operated, and controlled by a minimum of one owner whose racial or ethnic background is Asian Indian, Asian Pacific, Black, Native American or Hispanic, as defined by the U.S. Small Business Administration 8A program for Disadvantaged Businesses (see 13 CFR §124.103). To read more, please click here.
Do applicants receive a confirmation that they submitted their application?
Yes, you will receive a confirmation email upon submission of your application.
Selection Process
How will applications be selected to receive funding?
If the amount of eligible applications exceed the amount of funding available, the selection process will be conducted by an electronic lottery. This is not a first come, first serve process.
How will I be contacted or know if I will receive a grant?
You will be notified by the email you identify on your application.
Will I be contacted if I do not receive a grant?
Yes, you will be notified by email whether or not you receive a grant.
Receiving Grant Funds
If I am selected to receive a grant, how much money will I get?
Businesses will receive $2,500.
How will I receive funds?
Funds will be disbursed by paper check through the County payment management system and will be sent to the mailing address on your Payee Data Record Form.
Am I required to set up a new bank account specifically for these funds?
No.
Is my small business taxed on this grant?
Sacramento County cannot provide tax advice to those who receive payments. Please consult with personal tax advisors for any questions regarding tax liability for these payments. Any taxes associated with accepting or using the grant funds are the responsibility of the grantee.
