To support Oakland small businesses that have been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, the Economic & Workforce Development Department (EWD) engaged with Main Street Launch to administer the Oakland CARES Act Small Business Grant Program to distribute more than $4 million in direct financial support to 402 Oakland-based small businesses. The $10,000 grants helped to prevent displacement and closures of small businesses that contribute to the City’s diversity, vibrancy, and character. Some $2 million in funds were specifically earmarked for businesses located in Opportunity Zone-designated and other low-income census tracts.
Posted: February 4th, 2021 2:20 PM
Last Updated: March 31st, 2021 6:31 PM
Grant Program Overview
Recipient Demographics
Of the 402 grants awarded, 80 percent went to businesses owned by people of color, including 31% to Asian-owned businesses, 25% to Black-owned businesses and nearly 20% owned by Latinx entrepreneurs.
The ZIP Code with the most small business grant recipients was 94601 with 22%, followed by 94612, 94607 and 94606.
Testimonials
"We are truly grateful to receive this CARES Act-funded grant. These funds will be used to assist us in reestablishing our business for the reopens during the pandemic and post-pandemic. It will be a tremendous help in rebuilding our business. We have been serving our Oakland community proudly for years. This grant will not only help us to move forward but also help to keep our employees." Ngo Lau, Parfume Plus Beauty
"What a huge sigh of relief I can have now knowing that I can pay my business lease and bills and keep the doors open for my patients." Eunhye Kim, LAc, Tune Up Community Acupuncture