ARPA Small Business Micro Grant Program

The City of Atlantic City has launched the Small Business Micro Grant Program to provide direct financial support to small, for-profit businesses negatively affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. The program is made possible through over $400,000 in federal funding allocated from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA). It aims to promote job retention, economic recovery, and long-term resilience within Atlantic City's business community. This initiative reflects a broader strategy led by Mayor Marty Small, Sr., and the city's Economic Development division to expand local entrepreneurship and improve small business sustainability. Grants of up to $15,000 are available to eligible businesses. For existing businesses, the funding is offered on a reimbursement basis and may be used to offset pandemic-related expenses including payroll, rent, mortgage payments, utilities, inventory, equipment, and other operational costs incurred between March 3, 2021 and October 1, 2023. Startups and newer businesses established in 2022 or later are also eligible, provided they meet additional documentation requirements. To qualify, applicants must be for-profit entities either currently located in Atlantic City or intending to be located there. Additional requirements include having 50 or fewer employees, being independently owned and operated, and maintaining registration in New Jersey. Applicants must also provide evidence of financial hardship caused by the pandemic. Startups are required to submit a current business plan and a written narrative describing the pandemic's impact on their operations. Applications are being accepted on a rolling basis but must be submitted no later than October 31, 2025. The city encourages early submission to ensure timely review and maximize the number of awards distributed. Application materials and full program guidelines can be downloaded from the city’s website or obtained in person at City Hall (1301 Bacharach Boulevard, Suite 506). Completed applications may be submitted by email, mail, or in person. The program is administered by the Department of Planning & Development. For additional questions or to verify eligibility for specific expenses, applicants are advised to contact Bruce Weekes, Assistant Director of Economic Development. He can be reached at bweekes@acnj.gov or by phone at 609-347-5544. Prospective applicants visiting City Hall to pick up materials are encouraged to contact him in advance. This grant opportunity complements other ongoing initiatives offered through the city's Economic Development division, such as the Small Business Academy, Credit Repair and Investment Cohort programs, and promotional campaigns like the Keep It Local campaign and the Black Business Expo. These efforts are part of Atlantic City’s broader plan to increase the number and longevity of small businesses in the community.

Early submission is encouraged. Applicants visiting in person are advised to contact the grantor ahead of time.