Mayor Wheeler Announces Bremerton Grant Program for Local Businesses Impacted by COVID-19

Mayor Greg Wheeler announced today the development of a new City of Bremerton grant program that will assist local business owners facing significant impacts due to the coronavirus. The funds would provide reimbursement for commercial rent and lease expenses up to $5,000 to eligible Bremerton businesses impacted by COVID-19. 

Mayor Wheeler has committed $250,000 to support the program, called the City of Bremerton Small Business Relief Fund. Funding is coming out of CARES Act federal grant provided to the City in response to the coronavirus. Distribution of funds is subject to City Council approval.

“Local businesses are an essential part of our economy and our community,” said Mayor Wheeler. "This funding will meet a critical need and help Bremerton businesses who are facing financial strain and uncertainty due to COVID-19. By making this investment available, and if approved by Council, small businesses will receive support in making some payments on their rent and lease expenses.”  

Council members are set to vote on the proposal for the allocation of CARES Act money to Bremerton’s small business fund at the City Council August 5, 2020 meeting. 

Two Application Phases Available for Bremerton Businesses 

Pending approval by the City Council on the commitment of funds, the City of Bremerton will launch the effort to small businesses. Applications will be open in two phases and are scheduled to go live at noon on two dates:  

• Phase 1: August 18 ($125,000 available to Bremerton businesses) 
• Phase 2: August 25 ($125,000 available to Bremerton businesses) 

To be eligible, businesses must have 15 or fewer employees, have a current Bremerton business license, and have experienced COVID-19 impacts while operating a business in city limits. Nonprofits and cooperatives are also permitted to apply if they meet eligibility requirements. 

The City of Bremerton will announce additional details on the City’s new Small Business Relief Fund in the next several weeks, including eligibility, timelines and other requirements to apply.