Small Business Support Grant

The City of Dubuque has established a small business support grant for businesses to assist with operating costs.

The grant of up to $5,000 helps income-qualified small businesses succeed over the long term. To qualify, the owner's household OR business income must meet income guidelines. 

The goal of the grant program is to cover current expenses with grant funds while also helping the business owner to develop strategies for continued success. The City partners with the Fountain of Youth Program to administer the grant. Grant recipients will be matched with a business mentor and will be required to participate in an eight-week personal and professional development program facilitated by the Fountain of Youth. These qualifying requirements are meant to provide ongoing support to the business owner in their efforts to improve business practices and increase income.

*Use this document to determine if the income of the business qualifies as low- to moderate-income. 

Applications are currently closed.  

Small Business Grant Recipients

Funds are provided in the form of a reimbursement grant for eligible expenses, conditional upon the individual’s participation in both personal and professional development activities. This serves two purposes:

  1. it provides short-term assistance to keep the business operating well; and
  2. it positions the business owner to improve the business over the long term thanks to the personal and professional development activities required to remain eligible for the funds. (Studies show that small business owners who receive three or more hours of mentoring report higher revenues and increased growth.)

Supporting documents:

Applications will be reviewed for eligibility in the order of submission. Previous grant recipients are not eligible for award. Contact Economic Development Director Jill Connors with questions.