SBA opens page for Shuttered Venue Operators Grant application process

The U.S. Small Business Administration has opened a landing page for the Shuttered Venue Operators Grant (SVOG) application portal in anticipation of opening applications for the much-anticipated critical economic relief program on April 8. The SVOG funds have been allocated for relief to arts and entertainment venues closed by the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Help is here for venue operators hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic. The SBA has worked diligently to build the Shuttered Venue Operators Grant program from the ground up to assist and address the diverse eligibility requirements of each type of applicant and we will open for applications on April 8,” SBA Administrator Isabella Casillas Guzman said. “The SBA knows these venues are critical to America’s economy and understands how hard they’ve been impacted, as they were among the first to shutter. This vital economic aid will provide a much-needed lifeline for live venues, museums, movie theaters and many more.”

“We have been working very closely with our Utah art and entertainment venues as well as other businesses in the industry. We have all patiently waited and prepared for the SVOG application to open,” said Marla Trollan, SBA Utah district director. “We understand how vital this relief is to these businesses and will continue to work diligently in getting them the assistance they need to stay open and recover during this time.”

Prior to the official SVOG application opening, the SBA will host a national informational webinar to highlight the application process for potential eligible entities from 4:30-6 p.m. MST on March 30. Information about registering for the event is available on the SBA website.

The SVOG program was established by the Economic Aid to Hard Hit Small Businesses, Nonprofits and Venues Act, which appropriated $15 billion for it. Presidents Biden’s American Rescue Plan Act added $1.25 billion to the program.

Full details are available from the local SBA website at https://www.sba.gov/offices/district/ut/salt-lake-city.