Small businesses across the borough can apply for new $1,000 flash grants announced by QEDC and Maspeth Federal Savings. (QNS/File)
The Queens Economic Development Corporation (QEDC) is inviting small businesses across Queens to apply for $1,000 “flash grants” to cover operational expenses and “nagging problems.”
QEDC has teamed up with Maspeth Federal Savings to provide five $1,000 grants to businesses across the borough to cover expenses such as fixing a broken air conditioner, repairing an awning or printing new menus.
The initiative is designed to help small businesses tackle “annoying little problems,” according to QEDC, with the organization touting how the program is “fast and remarkably easy” to apply for.
The deadline for applications is Sept. 30, with the program open to all businesses currently operating in Queens or with plans to imminently open in the borough. Home-based businesses operated by Queens residents are also eligible for the program.
QEDC Executive Director Ben Guttmann said businesses need to simply write a single paragraph explaining how they would use the money in order to apply for the grants.
“Sometimes you just need a few extra bucks to get over the hump – to solve a nagging problem, push your marketing to the next level, or pay down a bill that’s been hanging over your head,” Guttmann said in a statement. “Most exciting for me as a former business owner, we’re keeping this program strikingly easy: just send us a single paragraph explaining what you’d use the money for.”
Thomas Rudzewick, president and CEO of Maspeth Federal Savings, said the initiative represents an investment in the future of Queens entrepreneurs.
“Big dreams start in small businesses and what begins as an idea today may become the innovation of tomorrow,” Rudzewick said in a statement.
Meanwhile, QEDC’s Business Services Director Bhavna Punjwani said the initiative can help offer to support to small businesses amid rising costs for the industry.
“Even just a little bit of capital can go a long way for a small business,” Punjwani. “As costs rise across the board, it can be very difficult for entrepreneurs to find the extra cash they need to reinvest in their businesses. We’re excited to offer this opportunity to do just that.”
Anyone wishing to apply for the grant can do so here.