Small Business Pivot Grant

The Town of Groton Small Business Pivot Grant Program is a strategic initiative aimed at empowering local small businesses to adapt and flourish in the face of evolving market demands, particularly in response to the challenges posed by the coronavirus pandemic. The Grant Program is designed to support essential investments, enabling businesses to enhance their operations, revamp their strategies, and effectively navigate the ever-changing business landscape.

The program is funded through the American Rescue Plan Act (“ARPA”) and provides limited, one-time direct financial reimbursements to businesses of up to $5,000 for eligible expenses, and up to $1,500 for aesthetic improvements as an eligible expense. By providing this financial support, the Town of Groton aims to foster a resilient local business community, stimulating economic growth and fostering a vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem.

Eligible businesses must meet certain criteria including, but not limited to, active operation within Groton for a minimum of 24 months, having fewer than 500 employees, and demonstrating adverse impacts resulting from the coronavirus pandemic. The grant funds, awarded on a reimbursement basis, can be utilized for a diverse range of purposes, including upgrading infrastructure and equipment to improve capacity to provide goods and services, aesthetic improvements, investing in technical services to enhance a business model such as innovative marketing strategies or creating a new revenue stream, or implementing a contingency plan for emergencies or disruptions.

Funding can also be used for implementing a contingency plan for emergencies and disruptions including purchasing equipment that helps businesses become more resilient to flooding and other hazards. (For more information and inspiration on flood preparedness, check out the Stay Afloat: Flood Preparedness Toolkit for local businesses at www.greatergroton.com/stay-afloat).

Download the application (to the right of the page) to review the Summary & Guidelines document for full details on applicant eligibility, eligible uses of funds, grant rules and requirements, and how to apply.