The U.S. Small Business Administration is launching a splash page for the Shuttered Venue Operators Grant (SVOG) application portal in anticipation of opening applications for the much-anticipated critical economic relief program on Thursday, April 8.
“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 theatres and many more.”
Prior to the official SVOG application opening, the SBA is hosting a national informational webinar to highlight the application process for potential eligible entities from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Tuesday, March 30. Those interested in participating can register here.
The SBA has provided a steady flow of information, including frequently updated FAQs, eligibility documents, video tutorials and application checklists, to inform and prepare eligible venues for the application opening date and ensure those in need are prepared to apply and receive these vital grants.
To prepare in advance of the SVOG application portal opening on April 8, potential applicants should:
Get registered in the federal government’s System for Award Management (SAM.gov), as this is required for an entity to receive an SVOG. Registration is free.
Reference the preliminary application checklist and eligibility requirements for more specific details.
In total, the Shuttered Venue Operators Grant program has been appropriated $16.25 billion, with $16 billion allocated to direct grants.
The American Rescue Plan Act amended the SVOG program to allow all entities that apply for a PPP loan on or after Dec. 27, 2020 to be eligible to apply for an SVOG. PPP loan applications were updated on March 18 to reflect this.
If awarded a PPP loan and an SVOG, the eligible entity’s SVOG will be reduced by their total PPP loan amount. Also, the PPP must be approved prior to the SVOG.
