The Urban League of Rochester will provide small businesses in Monroe County with $300,000 in COVID-19 relief funds, thanks to a generous stabilization grant program provided by ESL Federal Credit Union’s Charitable Foundation

The Sustaining Small Businesses and COVID-19 Relief Grant (SSBCRG) Program will support small business owners in a number of vital sectors: service/hospitality and lifestyle, health and wellness, and manufacturing. The businesses will receive direct and immediate assistance to combat the impact of the pandemic and to connect these individuals with the knowledge, tools and resources for long-term stability and growth.

“ESL is committed to helping our community thrive and prosper, and ensuring that equity is embedded into all of our work,” said Ajamu Kitwana, Vice President and Director of Community Impact at ESL Federal Credit Union. "We are honored to be able to provide these critical funds to the Urban League of Rochester that will help support and lift up minority- and women-owned small businesses during these challenging times.”

Recipients of SSBCRG funds may use them for needed expenses like rent and mortgage payments, utilities, insurance, and salaries. Participants will also receive ongoing training through the Urban League’s Business Development division, with particular attention paid to addressing inequities that have only grown more pronounced during the crisis.

“Minority- and women-owned businesses have experienced inequitable difficulties throughout the pandemic, and we must rally together to support them as they are the lifeblood of our community,” Kitwana added.

Interested business owners may learn more and download the grant application on our Small Business Relief page today. The application deadline is Monday, February 1, at 12 noon EST. Only complete applications received electronically by the deadline will be considered.

Additional questions about the program may be directed to the Business Development team at busdev@ulr.org. 

Questions and press inquiries may be directed to wrivera@ulr.org.