As many local businesses are working to recover from the financial hits of the pandemic, some may have the opportunity to receive support from the City of San Luis Obispo.
It's no surprise the past few months have been difficult with businesses on the Central Coast taking multiple hits.
For the second time though, some may find a glimmer of hope.
“Instant relief and just so thrilled and grateful that we were going to be able to move forward versus being frozen right where we were," said Melissa James, co-owner of Junk Girls.
James along with her partner Jenny Kompolt were recipients of the SLO City Small Business Relief Fund in the first round of grant allocation.
They were one of 52 businesses that were awarded $5,000.
The City of San Luis Obispo and San Luis Obispo Chamber of Commerce are coming together again to provide a second round of grants for businesses struggling.
“This has really hit a lot of businesses unequally and hence why we're really trying to target this next round of funding to those that really need it," San Luis Obispo City Manager Derek Johnson said.
The owners of Junk Girls say they won't be applying this time around, despite still needing financial help.
“We hope that all small businesses apply for this," Kompolt said.
With dozens of struggling businesses, it is a tough competition for those hoping to receive the grant.
San Luis Obispo Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Jim Dantona says within 24 hours of the application window opening, there were more than 150 applications.
At least half of those who have applied for the second round did not apply in the previous round.
Local businesses with fewer than 50 employees will be considered and only 100 businesses will be selected to receive $5,000.
The money allocated for the grant is coming from the City's General Fund, but the City of SLO and SLO Chamber of Commerce say they are still hoping to receive funding from both the state and federal level.
The deadline to apply for the SLO City Small Business Relief Fund is January 8.
Click here to apply.
