Small Business Administration Offering Relief For Struggling Idaho Restaurants

It definitely seems like pandemic life is shifting back to normalcy as summer approaches. Covid-19 restrictions are loosening. Vaccinations against the virus are widely available, which is helping crush the curve. I actually just got my second dose. Feels like people are getting back to going out, shopping, and dining. And that's awesome news, especially for small businesses that were financially shook when the pandemic hit.

Unfortunately the damage is already done. Over a year of dealing with this mess created a strain for so many local eateries it's going to take a lot for them to financially recover. Thankfully the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is offering financial relief through the SBA Revitalization Grant. Registration opens Friday, April 30th, while applying for the grant itself begins Monday, May 3rd.

Important notes for applicants:
- Time is of the essence! Registration begins at 7am MST on the 30th, so set an alarm.
- Same goes for applying. Applications are time stamped as they roll in. Set your alarm for 9:50am MST, as applications go live at 10am.
- Women, Veteran, and socially disadvantaged owned/controlled businesses are prioritized.

FARE Idaho, advocates "for Idaho’s independent restaurants, family farms, retailers, food and beverage producers," has resources and more information on the application process on their site.

Apparently the SBA has set aside $28.6B into this fund and it would be dope if a huge chunk of that was poured into our favorite restaurants and food trucks here in the Treasure Valley. So if you know anyone this would benefit, spread the word!