Lincoln is Giving Away Money to Boost Local Businesses! Apply Now!
ATTENTION LINCOLN BUSINESSES!
Boost your business and our community with the new Local Business Resource Fund from the City of Lincoln. Get grants for special events, marketing, and more!
What’s This All About?
It's a fresh initiative aimed at giving local businesses a boost. The objective is simple: Increase tax base, draw in new shoppers, spotlight specific commercial zones, and make Lincoln an even more awesome spot.
How Much Can You Get?
You can snag a grant ranging from $500 to $6,000. Yes, you read that right – up to $6,000 to help your business grow. Each district has a cap of $6,000 per fiscal year, so there’s plenty to go around, but it’s first come, first served.
What Can You Use the Money For?
Event Sponsorships: You’ve always wanted to host a community event to draw people in? This grant can help cover your costs. Here are some cool ideas that could qualify for the grant:
Sidewalk Chalk & Arts Festival: Vibrant celebration of Lincoln’s history, culture, arts, and food. Enjoy music, food, local crafts, and entertainment for all ages. Marvel at incredible chalk art creations on the sidewalks and immerse yourself in the rich heritage and creative spirit of our community. This fun-filled event promises to be a highlight of the year for residents and visitors alike!
Lincoln Community Wal, Talk & Tiday: Community business event where we walk together, engage, and help keep our neighborhood clean by picking up local trash. Community clean-up events that focus on beautifying and maintaining local parks, streets, and public spaces. Combining healthy activities where businesses can connect but at the same time, get your walking in, and beautifying neighbor hoods.
Marketing and Promotions: Need funds for an advertising campaign or promotional materials for your next community event? This grant can help you promote it through social media campaigns, SEO efforts, or high-quality print materials.
Economic Development Actions: Got a project that could boost the local economy, like a beautification project or a new business initiative? Perfect. Some more examples:
Beautification Projects: Improve the appearance of public spaces with landscaping, murals, or street furniture to create a more inviting atmosphere for shoppers and visitors.
Facade Improvements: Upgrade the exterior of your business or other local buildings to enhance curb appeal and attract more customers.
Technology Upgrades: Invest in technology improvements for local businesses, such as free public Wi-Fi zones or digital kiosks for information and advertising.
Keep in mind, there are some things the grant won't cover, like general operation costs (think payroll and maintenance), internal events (like staff luncheons), membership dues, or any unpermitted events.
How to Apply
Getting your hands on this money is pretty simple. Applications are accepted from June 1, 2024, to December 31, 2024. Here’s the lowdown on how to apply:
Fill Out the Form: You’ll need to complete the city-approved application form. Make sure to include all the necessary details and supporting documents like event plans, budgets, or any relevant stats.
Submit Your Application: You can either email it to erin.frye@lincolnca.gov or drop it off at Lincoln City Hall, 600 Sixth Street, Lincoln, CA 95648.
Wait for the News: You’ll get an email letting you know whether your application has been approved.
This is a fantastic opportunity to get some financial support and make a real impact in our community. So don’t wait – get your application in soon and make the most of the Local Business Resource Fund.
For more information, check out lincolnca.gov or reach out to Erin Frye at erin.frye@lincolnca.gov.
Let's make Lincoln even better together!
