The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has begun accepting applications for the Community Navigator Pilot Program, which targets the smallest socially and economically disadvantaged businesses.
“The Community Navigator Pilot Program is a crucial addition to our SBA programs because it helps us to connect with small businesses that have historically been underserved or left behind,” SBA Administrator Isabella Casillas Guzman said. “These businesses – the smallest of the small in rural and urban America, and those owned by women, people of color, or veterans – have suffered the greatest economic loss from this pandemic.”
The SBA would utilize a hub and spoke model approach in local regions nationwide as a means of bridging the gap between local entrepreneurs and the agency’s resources and programs.
“I’ve spoken to small businesses in every corner of Arizona,” Sen. Mark Kelly (D-AZ) said. “Far too many of them, especially tribal and minority-owned businesses and those in rural communities, have been unable to get the support they need. It’s why I fought to include the Community Navigator Program in the American Rescue Plan because it will help meet Arizona small businesses right in their communities, including providing assistance for Spanish-speakers, and get them the relief they need to keep their doors open and workers on payroll.”
The competitive grant awards would range from $1 million to $5 million for a two-year performance period. Applicants have until July 12, 2021, to submit their applications at grants.gov.