Small businesses can apply for up to $20,000 in grants

Small businesses impacted by COVID-19 can apply by Dec. 11 for up to $20,000 in a new round of $50 million in state Working Washington grants.

Businesses with annual revenues of $5 million or less in 2019, impacted by recent health measures, and/or in sectors that had significant impacts. Some of those include restaurants, fitness centers, bowling alleys and music and event venues.

Applications and information for the third round of Working Washington Business Grants are on an online portal at www.commerce.wa.gov/bizgrants.

The grants are from the CARES Act and states must distribute them by Dec. 30. They also must be used for expenses/costs incurred from COVID-19 and necessary for business to continue.

Some nonprofits may be eligible if they have a business that fits into a similar category, such as a nonprofit full-service restaurant or nonprofit music venue.