City of Erie Opens Next Round of Flagship Fund Microgrants

Erie, Pa. - Oct. 7, 2021 - The City of Erie Department of Economic and Community Development (DECD) announced that applications are now open for the next cycle of Flagship Fund microgrants for Erie small businesses. The deadline to apply is Oct. 29.

"The Flagship Fund helps small businesses in Erie pay for marketing, equipment, remodeling, or other needs," said City of Erie Business Development Officer Jenn Hoffman. "This program is meant to build up businesses as they grow right here in Erie."

The Flagship Fund microgrant program is:

• 1:1 Matching - Recipients may apply for funding up to half of their project costs or $2,500 (whichever is smaller).
• A Reimbursement Grant - Recipients must spend at least double the award and provide receipts for the project within one year of award.
• A $2,500 Maximum Award - Each applicant will have the opportunity to apply for up to $2,500. DECD anticipates awarding a total of $25,000 in this round of funding.
• Limited to City of Erie Small Businesses - Locally owned franchises and businesses within the City limits with 25 or fewer employees are eligible to apply. There is no annual revenue cap.
• Limited to Certain Business Expenses - Funding can be used for marketing, web design, remodeling, repairs, signage, equipment, intern stipends, or consulting. Funding cannot be used for inventory.

Past recipients of the Flagship Fund must wait three years before becoming eligible again.

The deadline to apply is Oct. 29. For more information and to apply, visit: cityof.erie.pa.us/flagshipfund or contact the City's Business Development Officer, Jenn Hoffman at jhoffman@erie.pa.us or 814-504-3372. Jenn will be available for interviews from 9:30 a.m. to 10 a.m. at City Hall.