Flint, MI — The City of Flint is investing in the future of local entrepreneurship through a one-time small business grant program, made possible by an allocation of American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds approved by Flint City Council. The initiative reflects Flint’s commitment to equitable economic recovery and neighborhood revitalization.
Through a partnership with LISC-Flint, 20 small businesses have been selected to receive $20,000 grants. These businesses—located primarily along Flint’s commercial corridors—represent a diverse cross-section of the city’s entrepreneurial landscape. All wards are represented in the awards, with the exception of Wards 7 and 8, which are predominantly residential.
“This investment reflects our belief in the power of local businesses to drive Flint’s recovery and long-term success,” said Mayor Sheldon Neeley. “We’re proud to support entrepreneurs who have weathered challenges and continue to serve our community.”
The City awarded the ARPA funds to LISC-Flint to manage and distribute the grants. Applications were received, reviewed, and scored by LISC and the Social Impact Philanthropy Initiative (SIPI), with funding disbursed directly by LISC.
To qualify, businesses were required to:
- Occupy a brick-and-mortar location within the City of Flint
- Be operational prior to 2020
- Submit a complete application
- Be registered with the State of Michigan
While individual businesses may be highlighted in future communications, the City’s focus remains on the collective impact of these investments. The program underscores Flint’s broader strategy to support small business development, foster job creation, and strengthen neighborhood economies.
Three of the 20 small businesses awarded were announced at a press conference held and Beauchamp’s Ace Hardware Wednesday, August 20. You can learn more about each of them in the videos below: