King County is preparing to launch a new program to help small businesses in unincorporated King County that have been hurt by the COVID-19 pandemic.

The program includes grant money – up to $5,000 – to help businesses “keep the lights on,” as well as technical and language assistance.

Here’s more info from the county:

About the program
We’re working to launch this program as quickly as possible. The information available now is posted below. Details about when and how to apply, and how to get technical and non-English language assistance, will be added as soon as they are available.

What businesses can apply?
To be eligible, a business must:

    • Be active and licensed in the state of Washington, with a physical business address in unincorporated King County
    • Have no more than 15 employees
    • Have been in business for at least three years as of Jan. 1, 2020
    • Have gross revenues of up to $1.5 million per year
    • Have received no other COVID-19 related aid from any federal, state, or other nonprofit agency.

Why are the grants only for unincorporated King County?
This program was created specifically to address the needs of businesses in unincorporated areas. The county reviewed recent financial aid programs offered by federal, state, and local governments. We found that small businesses in the unincorporated areas were underrepresented. This was particularly true for businesses in areas that have been historically disadvantaged or that are owned by members of historically disadvantaged populations.

How much money is available, and how large will the grants be?
The program has $3.5 million for emergency grants to eligible small businesses. The maximum grant to any one business will be $5,000.