Enid Regional Development Alliance is accepting applications for its second year of the Micro-Enterprise Grant program.
In 2021, ERDA will award two $10,000 grants to local businesses with six or fewer employees. Recipients can use the funds for any business expense necessary for the operation, management, formation or expansion of the company.
In 2020, ERDA awarded its first Micro-Enterprise Grant to Latoya Peyton, Sunny Moon Evening Care owner. The grant allowed Peyton to purchase new equipment, receive training and buy educational material for the children in her care.
“Receiving the Micro-Enterprise Grant was extremely beneficial to the continued growth of my business,” Peyton said. “The equipment purchased will be great for the children, and the training I received through Autry Technology was very beneficial.”
Those interested in applying for the grant may turn in an application to ERDA by 5 p.m. April 30, by emailing it to trent@growenid.com or delivering it to the office at 2020 Willow Run, Suite 100. For more information and to download the application, visit www.growenid.com/local-incentives or contact Trent Misak at (580) 233.4232 or trent@growenid.com.
“Small business owners are an integral part of Enid and economic growth in the community,” said Lisa Powell, ERDA executive director. “We know that COVID-19 has impacted several small business owners. We hope that the Micro-Enterprise Grant will benefit the recipients as they continue to serve their customers through these challenging times. The grant will allow the recipient to use the funds for rent, payroll, inventory, software, marketing, equipment or renovations.”
Applications will be graded on the business’s viability, potential for growth and overall economic impact. The recipient must be willing to partner with ERDA and Autry Technology Center on their success through coaching and other business assistance. Priority is given to companies who make a product.