The City of Frederick Launched ACCESS GRANTED for Minority- and Women-Owned Small Businesses

The City of Frederick announced the launch of a new grant opportunity through the Department of Economic Development. The “ACCESS GRANTED” program specifically supports and empowers minority- and women-owned small businesses. This initiative is available to start-up and established businesses in need of access to capital for a defined project that will help scale their business.

The program aims to foster a supportive and inclusive business environment that enables entrepreneurs to reach their full potential. The city has earmarked $400,000 to deploy as grants for this new program. The funding is part of a Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds program authorized by the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA-SLFRF.)

Applications for the “ACCESS GRANTED” grant will close on August 12, 2024, at 5:00 p.m. Business owners interested in applying should read the eligibility criteria. They should also attend the virtual information session before applying for this competitive grant. The virtual information session takes place on July 23, 2024, from 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. Find more information here.

The benefits of ACCESS GRANTED

“We feel thrilled to introduce the ‘ACCESS GRANTED’ program. It is a vital step towards creating a more equitable and thriving business community in Frederick,” says Richard Griffin, the Director of the Department of Economic Development.

“Minority and women-owned businesses historically have faced systemic barriers that have prevented them from securing the financial resources to help them grow and thrive,” said Mayor Michael O’Connor. “ACCESS GRANTED aims to create equal opportunities. The program injects $400,000 directly into our local economy businesses that have historically been overlooked or marginalized. This ensures they have the resources to thrive alongside their peers. ACCESS GRANTED is not just a grant program; it is a statement of values of equity and economic justice.”

For more information about ACCESS GRANTED and to apply, visit the website or email accessgranted@cityoffrederickmd.gov.