The Pontiac Funders Collaborative has formed a $200,000 grant relief fund to help for-profit small businesses in Pontiac that have been affected by the COVID-19 crisis with their operating expenses. Grants will range from up to $2,500 for home-based businesses and up to $5,000 for brick and mortar businesses.
We are also providing technical assistance to business owners who want to apply to help you complete the application process, refer you to business support organizations and assess your family’s basic needs. Grantees will receive additional one on one technical assistance to further identify and support their needs in response to this crisis.
Timeline
- Applications will go live: May 18 at 9 a.m.
- Round One applications are due: May 26 by 5 p.m.
- Decisions on Round One applications will be made: June 4
- Round Two applications will go live: June 8 at 9 a.m.
- Round Two applications are due: June 16 by 5 p.m.
- Decisions on Round Two applications will be made and applicants informed: June 23
If awarded, funds will be issued within a few days of decision dates.
To Apply
- Step One: Read Program Guidelines here (En Español)
- Step Two: To start an application, click here (En Español)
- Step Three: If you have any questions, please contact the following:
- For questions or support in completing your application, contact Tameka Ramsey by email here or by phone at 248-812-9850
- For any questions about the Program generally, contact Bill Sullivan by email here or by text/phone at (248) 298-9985
- For any technical questions when submitting your application in the online system, contact Glen Konopaskie by email here or by text/phone at (248) 420-7169
The Pontiac Small Business Relief Fund is being managed by a unique cohort of partners:
- Bill Sullivan Enterprises & the Pontiac Community and Economic Development Coalition are working together to manage the application process through a secure, online platform.
- T. Ramsey & Associates is providing technical assistance to applicants and grantees.
- A volunteer advisory committee of community leaders is assisting with the review of the applications.
- Oakland Livingston Human Services Agency is the administrative home for the effort and these partner consultants, and will be issuing the checks to those selected.
A very special thanks to our advisory committee:
- Dr. Desmon Daniel, CEO, Pontiac School of Excellence, Resident
- Margaret Dimond, CEO, McLaren Health
- Vernita Duvall, “Pontiac’s Big Idea” grant program, Resident
- Ryan Hertz, CEO, Lighthouse Michigan
- Pastor Douglas Jones, Director, Committee of 50, Pastor
- Al Patrick, Director of Community Relations, OLHSA, Resident
- Kaino Phillips, President, Ascend Foundation, Resident
- Sonia Plata, Co-Chair, Pontiac Funders Collaborative
- Tamara Orza-Ramos, Resident
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