Two-week application period for Alameda County COVID-19 business-assistance grants now open

HAYWARD, Calif., Nov. 17, 2020—Hayward small businesses that have been forced to close or layoff a worker due to COVID-19 are eligible to apply for one-time $5000 grants authorized earlier this month by the Alameda County Board of Supervisors.

The application period, which began Monday, Nov. 16, runs through Monday, Nov. 30, and is open to Alameda County businesses with up to 25 employees and to people who are self-employed.

To be eligible, the business or self-employed person must have a valid local business license and agree to follow State of California and Alameda County Department of Public Health COVID-19 guidelines for maintaining a safe workplace.

The Board of Supervisors allocated $5 million in federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act funds for the small business grant program, which is being administered by the East Bay Economic Development Alliance (East Bay EDA).

Grant funds may be used for unreimbursed costs incurred between March 17 and Dec. 30, 2020, for the following:

• Rent, lease, mortgage and utility payments for business facilities
• Payroll
• Operating expenses such as supplies, materials, insurance, etc.
• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), sanitation or health and safety equipment
• Digital technology equipment or platforms
• Interior and exterior physical adaptations, such as partitions, signage, outdoor seating, etc.

For more information, answers to frequently asked questions and to apply, go online to https://eastbayeda.org/grants.