Note from Peri: Today’s post is from Lisa Barrow. She’s been working for my company for just about a year as Editor, helping me ensure that all the content we produce is well-crafted, clean and clear. I have arm-twisted her into contributing some blog posts to highlight resources for small businesses, both at the local and global level. Today’s focus is local (New Mexico). Thanks for everything, Lisa!
Ah, the sweet taste of having the financial (and other) resources you need to do your work. Have you been drinking in the news from New Mexico’s Economic Development Department (EDD) lately? Here’s a little sip of the resources they’ve shared recently. I hope you, too, can find yourself a long, cool drink of that economic relief.
Shuttered Venue Operators (SVO) Grant provides emergency assistance for eligible venues affected by the COVID pandemic
Operators of movie theaters, live venues and live performing arts organizations, as well as certain other folx, can apply to receive grants (up to $10 million) based on their pre-pandemic gross incomes and how much business they’ve lost. Funds can be used for things like payroll, rent, utilities, state or local taxes, maintenance costs and administrative costs — but there are also specific limits in place. Check out the Program Details and, since the grant isn’t yet completely set up, be sure to email them or check back soon.
Mentorship and business support for Black entrepreneurs
SCORE pledges to offer “the largest network of volunteer business mentors from all backgrounds and experiences to help entrepreneurs at any business stage and in every industry.” Their mentorship program is free. With a portal specifically addressing the needs of Black business owners, as well as plenty of site resources, they’re worth checking out.
Chamiza Foundation Covid-19 Emergency Relief Fund assists pueblo communities, their leadership and supporting organizations
This tribal resources will award grants of $3,000 to $12,000. Support priorities include food, water, medical supplies and personal items, as well as community recovery and internet access. Deadline for the second round of disbursements is May 7. Read application requirements here.
PNM COVID Relief Program for small businesses and nonprofits who need help with their electricity bill
To qualify for economic relief, a small business must be:
- Registered with the New Mexico Secretary of State.
- On Small Power Service (PNM 2A or 2B rate).
- Be a nonprofit 501(c)3 or a small business in certain industries. They include: restaurant, retail, hospitality, services (e.g. salon, massage business, small automotive garage) or leisure/entertainment with 50 or fewer employees.
- An active non-residential PNM Electric customer for the past 6 months.
- Experiencing financial hardships due to COVID-19, with a past due account.
They do require you to pay at least 25% of the past due balance and enter a payment arrangement for the rest. Apply here.
And…another list of resources for economic relief
I know, you’re reading a list based on a list and I’m sending you to another list, but bear with me. Some of these highly specific small business grants could turn out to be just the thing for you. From GoFundMe matching funds to grants available to users of Ball canning products, don’t miss out on the cashmoney that could be helping you get through these dry times.
This is just a smattering of what’s available on the EDD website. Government resources can be truly hit-or-miss, but taking the time to look can pay off — especially now when there are quite a number of pandemic-specific resources. If you’d like to get on the EDD’s email list or see recent newsletters, they’re collected here.