Attention small business owners of Duluth, MN! In case you haven’t already heard, the Small Business Marketing Match Grant is officially accepting applications now through April 29th. This is a great opportunity for Duluthians looking for a way to grow there small business or help with getting a fairly new one off the ground.
Keep reading to learn more!
What is the Small Business Marketing Match Grant Program
The Small Business Marketing Match Grant program is “intended to help with marketing efforts of businesses or nonprofit organizations within the City limits of Duluth.” Up to 28 businesses or nonprofit organizations will be offered up to $5,000 in matching funds for their marketing efforts.
Applications will be reviewed by a panel who will be making selections in early May. The quality of the business/nonprofit marketing plan, financial need, capability in meeting key city priorities such as improving equity, providing for business retention or expansion in core investment areas, and supporting business negativly impact by COVID-19 will be used to score projects.
What can the grants be used for?
If awarded the grant, funds may be used for the following:
- Business marketing in print, multi-media, digital, email, social media, video marketing or other visual means
- Direct expenditure for marketing and outreach
- Creation of promotional materials for business enhancement
- Creation of new business signage or other visual improvements
- Marketing consulting or small business consulting assistance with a strong marketing focus
Eligibility requirements
In order to qualify for the Small Business Marketing Match Grant, businesses and a nonprofits must meet the following criteria:
- Nonprofits must be operation for 6 months or longer at the time of application submission
- Business must be earning revenue for 6 months or longer at the time of application submission
- Eligible business and nonprofits must employ 25 staff members or less
- Submit a marketing plan for their desired services
- Indicate the origin of the matching funds being contributed, in- kind matching funds may also be accepted
Grant recipients in 2023 are not eligible for funding in 2024
You can view the program guidelines in more detail as well as find the application here!