The Gwinnett Hospitality, Arts, and Entertainment Recovery Grant Fund aims to provide financial assistance to local organizations that have been adversely affected by the economic fallout of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Backed by the American Rescue Plan (ARP), this program is set to play a crucial role in the revival of the county’s cultural and business communities.
Who is Eligible?
The grant program is broader than the existing Gwinnett Creativity Fund and is designed to benefit a diverse range of organizations.
Eligible participants include 501(c)(3) arts and cultural organizations, as well as small business and for-profit entities in the hospitality, art and entertainment sectors.
This includes local hotels, restaurants, breweries, inbound tour operators, receptive operators and film production studios. Notably, chains and franchised businesses are not eligible as the program is specifically tailored to organizations based in Gwinnett County.
Financial Aid Details
The Recovery Grant Fund is a reimbursement-based program that allows organizations to claim back eligible expenses incurred in 2023.
These expenses can include rent, utilities, venue rental for 501(c)(3) organizations, and additionally payroll expenses for for-profit entities with fewer than 50 employees.
The funding caps vary based on the organization’s budget, with the maximum award ranging from $5,000 for budgets under $250,000 to $25,000 for budgets over $2 million.
Application Process and Deadlines
Applications for the grant opened on Nov. 19, 2023, and the deadline for submission is set for Jan. 30, 2024.
To apply, organizations must have been operational since at least Dec. 31, 2019, hold all necessary licenses and permits, be compliant with local codes and be current on taxes.
A range of documents, including IRS Exempt Determination Letters and IRS Form W-9, must accompany the application. (Learn more about application documents here.)
This grant program is unique in its focus on both non-profit and for-profit sectors within the arts, hospitality, and entertainment industries.
It’s important to note that organizations cannot apply for grant money for expenses that have already been covered by other grant programs like the Gwinnett Creativity Fund, PPP or Shuttered Venues Grant.
Community Impact
The Gwinnett Hospitality, Arts, and Entertainment Recovery Grant Fund represents a vital step in supporting the revival of local businesses and cultural organizations in Gwinnett County.
By providing these much-needed funds, Explore Gwinnett aims to not only assist in the recovery from the impacts of COVID-19 but also to foster a thriving business community in the region.
For more information, please contact Madison@exploregwinnett.org.
