HARTFORD, Conn — The City of Hartford announcing a second round of grants for small businesses that are struggling during the COVID-19 pandemic. The money made possible by the Hartford Foundation and the CARES ACT which has been distributed by the city.
During this second round, $800,000 dollars will go to 100 small businesses.
The first round of grants took place earlier this year. City leaders say $1.25 million were awarded to 161 small businesses over the summer. About 80 percent of the businesses were owned by women an/or people of color.
Caribe Restaurant on Park Street was among the recipients in the first round. Employees at the restaurant says business has not been the same since the pandemic. They’ve closed down their indoor dining section because it is too small for customers to safely socially distance.
“Thanks to the grants this has helped us pay for rent, pay for utilities, keep our employees on the payroll, it’s been really challenging,” says Damarys Aybar, who works at Caribe Restaurant.
On average restaurants received about $8,000. Mayor Luke Bronin says much more help is needed.
“I want to stress that for some small businesses a grant of 5-10 thousand can make a huge difference. For others, it is just a piece of the puzzle and we need to acknowledge and recognize that. And again continue to advocate from the state and federal government right now,” says Mayor Luke Bronin.
The city announcing that a third round of grants is coming soon. An additional $750,000 will be available for small businesses at the beginning of next year.