Main Street News: Downtown Businesses, In the Spotlight

Downtown Richmond businesses are in the spotlight! Our very own Rich City Studios is a second-round recipient of the HartBeat of Main Street Grant Program. Of the 31 grants awarded, 26 benefited diverse-owned businesses and 2 are located in California. We are honored to have supported them in applying and so happy for this positive outcome. Join us in congratulating them on this most excellent news: send a note, book a session, get some merch. This Saturday we will be shining the spotlight on 4 Black-owned enterprises at our next Virtual Merchant Showcase. Don’t miss it!

Main Street Presents

Virtual Merchant Showcase – January 16

Saturday, January 16 | 2pm | via Zoom | Tickets $10

Showcasing 4 Amazing Black-Owned Enterprises and featuring cool Downtown history, trivia, prizes, exclusive deals just for ticketholders, and more. PLUS: 100% of the proceeds will be given directly to the showcased businesses.

Get your ticket, invite your friends, and join us for our
first Virtual Merchant Showcase of 2021!

Learn More & Get Tickets

Sqaure E-Commerce Program

New & Improved Tutorials AND Office Hours Are Here!

Free On-Demand Tutorials: Restaurants, Retail & Services
Office Hours with our Square Expert: January 21 @ 3pm or January 22 @ 8am
Request a FREE Contactless Square Reader: Process payments anywhere

Learn More

7 Ways to Support Local Safely

Learn How: 7 Ways to Support Local Safely

Shop Local: Downtown Businesses Directory

Guides & Resources

NEW COVID19 Relief Programs for California Small Businesses

California Small Business COVID-19 Relief Grant Program

What: Micro grants ranging from $5,000 to $25,000 to eligible small businesses and nonprofits impacted by COVID-19 and the related health and safety restrictions. Funds are administered by California Office of the Small Business Advocate (CalOSBA); applications are processed by Lendistry.

Deadline to Apply: January 13, 2021, 11:59pm PST

Get Help: Preview the Application, Free Webinars, Application Guidance

Learn More & Apply

California Small Business COVID-19 Relief Grant Program

What: A low-interest loan program to support California’s small businesses—especially those located in economically disadvantaged and historically under-banked areas of the state as they adapt and navigate the effects of COVID-19. Loans are available through local CDFI lenders.

To Apply: Complete pre-application to be screened and matched with a lender

Get Help: Email loans@asksbdc.com, Call (833) ASK-SBDC, Resources

Learn More & Apply