September 28, 2021                                                                              

The Washington State Department of Commerce has announced a new grant program that provides funds to small businesses and nonprofits that have been negatively impacted by the US-Canadian border closure as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Working Washington Grants: Business Relief Program will grant eligible businesses up to $50,000 and award amounts will vary based on priority criteria.

The portal to apply for a grant will be open from October 4, 2021 through October 18, 2021 at 5 pm PST. All applicants who meet eligibility requirements and apply within this window will be considered.

What are the eligibility requirements?

• Active business physically located in one of the following counties in Washington state: Clallam, Jefferson, Skagit, San Juan, Island, Whatcom, Okanogan, Ferry, Stevens and Pend Oreille.
• Reported annual gross receipts of $5,000,000 USD or less to the Washington State Department of Revenue for calendar year 2019.
• Documented reduction in business income or activity related to COVID-19 or as a result of state or local COVID-related public health measures.
• Adherence to all required COVID-19 public health measures.

These grants are aimed at providing support to customer-facing businesses that generate significant revenue from Canadian visitors or businesses that require access to the US-Canadian border crossings or ports.

If you have questions about this grant opportunity or would like to learn more about how to apply, contact us today or visit the Washington State Department of Commerce website.