On Sept 20, Anne Arundel County plans to launch a Digital Services Grant for small businesses and nonprofits.
In a move highlighting the importance of reliable broadband access in Maryland and beyond, AAEDC has created the Digital Services Grant program using $500,000 that the state has set aside in American Recovery Act funds. Under the new program, brick and mortar small businesses and nonprofits can apply for up to $10,000 which can be used toward a variety of digital services, i.e. online marketing, e-commerce, etc. The grant is managed by the county Economic Development Corporation (EDC).
The Digital Services Grant is meant to aide businesses who were harmed as a result of having to go entirely virtual during the recent COVID-19 pandemic restrictions. As restrictions are lifted, the EDC wants to help businesses attract new customers. The roll out of this program comes just in time for the busy holiday season, when consumer spending has historically increased significantly.
Eligibility Requirements Include:
- Having 2 to 20 employees
- Be an established business since March 9, 2020
- Retail (Traders License)
- Beauty and health personal services (Health License)
- Adult and children’s activity centers such as gyms, dance, yoga and martial arts studios, arts and crafts businesses (Certificate of Use)
- Nonprofit organization (A 2019 IRS 990 form)
Applications can be found on the Digital Services Grant Page.
