Federal Grant, Loan Programs Available to Assist Businesses

Applications are now being accepted for two new programs created to assist new business establishment or expansion of an existing business within the City of Redlands. The Microenterprise Grant Assistance Program (MAP) provides grants ranging from $5,000 to $25,000 to purchase equipment or for working capital. MAP grants must fulfill public benefit requirements related to low- and moderate-income persons. MAP grants need not be repaid providing all program requirements are met. Businesses must be located within the Redlands City limits and have five or fewer employees, including the owner, at the time of application. Non-profits are not eligible for MAP grants. The Economic Development Loan Program (EDLP) must also fulfill public benefit requirements related to creation of new jobs that are made available to low- and moderate-income persons. EDLP loans range from $25,000 to $150,000. The current interest rate is 2 percent with terms from five to 15 years. To qualify, businesses must be located within the Redlands City limits. Loans are to be used to purchase real estate, equipment or for working capital or for interior or exterior construction. Prevailing wage requirements will apply. Non-profits are not eligible for EDLP loans. To qualify for either program, complete a pre-application form and schedule a review appointment with City staff who will confirm basic eligibility. Complete program guidelines and pre-application forms for these special economic development programs are available online at www.cityofredlands.org/cdbg. Federal Community Development Block Grant Funds (CDBG) for both of these programs are limited to annual allocations. Once all available funds are disbursed, applications will no longer be accepted. Submitting an application does not guarantee or reserve funding. For more information, visit the City of Redlands Development Services Department, 210 E. Citrus Ave. or call 909-335-4755, ext 9.