Work begins on new small business grant

The City of Overland Park will begin an engagement phase of a new small business rescue program scheduled to launch in Spring 2022.

The Overland Park Small Business Rescue Program is funded by the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021.

The City intends to spend $3 million in ARPA funds to assist qualified small businesses and businesses in the Overland Park tourism, travel, and hospitality industries financially impacted as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Community Capital Fund, which has previously administered grant programs for the city, will hold a series of in-person and virtual events to learn more about how the community thinks the money should be spent.

Over the next few weeks, Community Capital Fund will host three in-person events across Overland Park and one virtual event to get feedback from businesses about how the money should be spent.

In addition, Community Capital Fund will conduct both online and phone surveys aimed at engaging business owners and community stakeholders to ensure the grant funds meet the areas of most need.

Business owners, employees and community members are encouraged to participate to give valuable input to determine both the use of funds and the performance indicators of this new program.

“We know the COVID-19 pandemic created unexpected economic difficulties for businesses in our community, particularly small businesses and businesses in the travel, tourism and hospitality industry. Many businesses continue to struggle or to hire or retain employees,” Overland Park Strategic Planning Manager, Erin Ollig said. “This infusion of funds provides an opportunity for the city to directly support eligible businesses that need more help.”

For additional information on meeting dates and locations, please visit the Community Capital Fund website.

Register for an event online.

Interpretation services will be provided upon request.

Community Capital Fund may reschedule in-person events due to inclement weather or COVID-19 concerns.