$1 Million in Small Business Grants Disbursed in Oakland
In partnership with the City of Oakland, Working Solutions has deployed $1,000,000 to make emergency relief grants to 185 local small business owners. Our thanks to the Oakland COVID-19 Relief Fund, Union Bank, and many generous individual donors for making the Oakland Small Business Emergency Grant Program possible.
Of the 185 grants made so far to small business owners in Oakland:
100% were made to very or extremely low-income individuals (defined as earning 50% or less of the Area Median Income);
85% were made to entrepreneurs of color;
60% were made to women entrepreneurs;
17% were made to business owners who used a non-English application; and
89% of the businesses generate less than $250,000 in annual revenue.
You can see additional data about the grant recipients here. Read more about the grant program here.
In their own words, below are quotes illustrating the impact of these grant funds:
“We are elated that we have been selected for this grant. We will be able to continue to care for children of essential workers.” - Family Child Care Business Owner
“Thank you so much for your help. This generous grant will bring immense relief to my business and my employees.” - Restaurant Owner
“I am so grateful, so deeply grateful. This grant equates to survival!” - Dance Studio Owner
“Thank you for approving my business for this grant during these very difficult times. I would like you to know how thankful I am to receive any type of assistance/help during this crisis.” - Barber Shop Owner
“I so appreciate this grant and am so relieved to have some funds that will help me stay afloat during this challenging time!” - Personal Chef Business Owner
“On behalf of our community and all the families that we serve, thank you!!! This means so much to us and is going to make a huge difference for our small business. It's really encouraging during such a challenging and difficult time.” - Rock Climbing Gym Owner
“We are so thrilled and extremely grateful for this! It can help us stay afloat until the storm is over. We will be working hard to provide employment and great service to the community!” - Massage Therapy Business Owner
“I want to thank you all for this wonderful gift. It is well needed to keep my shop open. I love Oakland and look forward to a bright future in the lovely City of Oakland.” - Vintage/Consignment Shop Owner