The Williamsburg Community Foundation has provided $3,000 small business grants to 125 local businesses through the Greater Williamsburg Small Business Relief Fund, to help them navigate the economic uncertainty caused by the coronavirus pandemic. The Startup Relief Fund has been used to cover costs such as payroll, benefits, and rent, supporting a diverse range of businesses from restaurants to automotive services. The Foundation, in partnership with the Greater Williamsburg Partnership and the Economic Development Authorities of Williamsburg, James City and York counties, continues to provide forgivable loans to businesses in need. James City County Board of Supervisors has also allocated $500,000 to the fund to support local businesses.

The Impact of Coronavirus on Local Businesses

By WYDaily Staff

Supporting Local Businesses with Small Business Grants

It’s no secret the coronavirus has wreaked havoc on businesses, especially local ones. Some have permanently closed, and others continue to navigate the economic uncertainty brought about by the pandemic. So, every little thing helps. Take for instance the small business grants.
Startup Relief Fund Supports 125 Hampton Roads Businesses Image
The Williamsburg Community Foundation this week said 125 area businesses have received $3,000 small business grants thanks to the Greater Williamsburg Small Business Relief Fund. The grants help local small businesses that have been hurt due to the economic downturn during the pandemic. Funds have helped businesses meet payroll, benefits, rent and other costs to cover the gaps as the local economy recovers, according to a news release from the foundation. Businesses that have been helped include restaurants, retail, fitness, automotive services, and others.
“I am eternally grateful for this grant,” said Brenda Jones, owner of Printwell, Inc. a family-owned business located in Norge, in a prepared statement. “I’ve been able to keep my staff on full-time. It’s been a hard road for everyone. But I grew up in Williamsburg, and this community it very important to us. So, we are so thankful that the community is here for us now when we need it.”

Partnership for Small Business Relief Fund

In May, the Greater Williamsburg Partnership and the Williamsburg Community Foundation created the Greater Williamsburg Small Business Relief Fund in partnership with the Economic Development Authorities of city of Williamsburg, James City and York counties. Private donors have also contributed to the effort. The Greater Williamsburg Small Business Relief Fund continues to provide forgivable loans (i.e.., grants) to businesses, who complete a short application through Virginia 30 Day Fund.
“This has been a great partnership,” notes Nancy Sullivan, executive director of the Williamsburg Community Foundation. “Virginia 30 Day makes it very easy for businesses to apply for the grant. There is a quick turnaround so that these folks can keep paying their staff and serving our community. We really encourage other businesses in James City County to apply.”

Allocated Funds for Small Business Relief

The James City County Board of Supervisors allocated $500,000 to the Small Business Relief Fund to help businesses in that locality. Funding is still available, and businesses located in James City County are strongly encouraged to apply. Qualifying businesses must be based in James City County have operated for at least a year, employ three to 30 people and be owned and operated by a Virginia resident. Questions? Contact Williamsburg Community Foundation at 757-259-1660.

Question & Answer

How many local businesses have received small business grants from the Williamsburg Community Foundation?

125 local businesses have received $3,000 small business grants from the Williamsburg Community Foundation through the Greater Williamsburg Small Business Relief Fund.

What costs have the Startup Relief Fund been used to cover for businesses?

The Startup Relief Fund has been used to cover costs such as payroll, benefits, and rent for local businesses.

Who are the partners involved in providing forgivable loans to businesses in need?

The Williamsburg Community Foundation, in partnership with the Greater Williamsburg Partnership and the Economic Development Authorities of Williamsburg, James City and York counties, continues to provide forgivable loans to businesses in need.