The grant program is offering up to $5,000 to small businesses who meet the following requirements:

The business must have 5 or fewer employees, including the owner(s).

The business must be registered and physically located within Albuquerque city limits.

The business must have experienced financial hardship due to COVID-19.

The business must have been in business for at least 6 months.

Grant funds must be deposited into a business bank account and only be used for business expenses. The City of Albuquerque will make electronic deposits.

Business owners must agree to provide a report about the use and results of the grant funds six months after receipt.

Businesses that are franchises or restricted to patrons above the age of 18 or older will not be eligible for the award — like bars or smoke shops.

The City of Albuquerque is now accepting applications. For more information and to apply to the program, click here or call (505) 768-3270.

Local business owners are also invited to participate in a webinar hosted by the City of Albuquerque Small Business Office. Officials will be providing updated information about federal, state and city financial assistance programs and other resources that are available.