To mitigate the long-term impact of COVID-19 on small businesses, San Joaquin County has authorized the Spark Relief Grant Program for Small Business Assistance utilizing American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding. This program will play a vital role in fostering economic recovery and resilience within our community. Despite showing remarkable resilience, small businesses are still vulnerable, grappling with increased operational costs, reduced revenue streams and workforce challenges.

The objective of this program is to provide targeted support to ensure small businesses not only recover but thrive in a post-pandemic economy. The Local Investment for Financial Thrive (LIFT) Initiative builds on the County’s ongoing commitment to strengthening its small business community by delivering direct financial relief and strategic support. The LIFT Initiative will address key challenges and offer immediate relief to small businesses located in San Joaquin County. The Spark Relief Grant program will ease operational costs by reimbursing utility expenses by providing immediate financial relief, allowing impacted businesses that were operational prior to the pandemic, to allocate resources toward economic recovery and growth. Grants up to $5,000 for eligible small businesses for utility expenses will be provided for businesses who suffered financial harm caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Important To Note

Spark Relief Grants will be awarded on a first-come, first-served basis.

Spark Relief Grants are limited to one grant per business owner, household, taxpayer ID, etc.

Expenditures must have occurred at the applicant’s place of business and the paid utility invoices must be in the applicant’s name.

Maximum grant available is $5,000.00 for reimbursements covering expenditures incurred between January 1, 2022 and the date of the grant application.

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