Small businesses in Washington, especially those owned by LGBTQ people, BIPOC community members and women, are at greater risk in today’s uncertain economy. These local restaurants, bookstores, bistros, shops, stores and more are a part of the social fabric in our communities, and they need our support.
That is why the Greater Seattle Business Association (GSBA) and Comcast Washington today launched Ready for Business – a relief fund that provides $2,500 grants to businesses with diverse owners that seek financial assistance. With $50,000 in seed funding from Comcast Washington and GSBA as the fund administrator, Ready for Business seeks to support 20 qualifying small businesses to start, with additional grants made available by securing contributions from other companies and individuals.
LGBTQ-, BIPOC-, and women-owned small businesses throughout the state that have been in business since March 2, 2020 may find more information and apply for Ready for Business Fund grants at theGSBA.org/ready-for-business. Applications are open from Aug. 3, 2020 through Sept. 4, 2020. All grant applicants will be notified the week of Sept. 21, 2020.
The grant application is short and easy to complete. Submissions will be reviewed by a committee made up of a diverse group of volunteers from the GSBA and at-large community members. All grant recipients will receive wrap-around services from GSBA and Comcast Washington, including membership, advertising, and consulting.
How to Contribute to the Fund
Companies and individuals may find more information and contribute to the Ready for Business Fund by contacting Ilona Lohrey, GSBA – Washington State’s LGBTQ & Allied Chamber of Commerce at IlonaL@thegsba.org / (206)-653-6567, or visiting the webpage at theGSBA.org/ready-for-business.