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Metro Creative Connection
Metro Creative Connection

Higgins announces opening of grant program for museums, performing arts & live venues

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Fri, Apr 9th 2021 08:55 am

Federal relief available for facilities shutdown due to pandemic

Congressman Brian Higgins announced help is available for arts, museums and performance venues that had to close their doors or saw drastically reduced business due to the pandemic. Over $16 billion was provided through legislation supported by Higgins for the Shuttered Venue Operators Grant (SVOG) program.

“Western New York’s arts and cultural industries not only add to our community’s quality of life they are significant contributors to the regional economy supporting thousands of local jobs,” Higgins said. “When the lights went out on stages and doors to venues closed, people were forced out of work and, over a year later, facilities have yet to return to normal operations. These resources will provide necessary relief to see we don’t lose these venues and the jobs they support permanently.”

Applicants can now apply through the U.S. Small Business Administration website at https://www.svograntportal.sba.gov/s/. Entities suffering the greatest economic loss will be processed first.

Eligible applicants include: live performing arts organization operators; theatrical producers; motion picture theater operators; talent representatives; live venue operators or promoters; and museums, zoos and aquariums meeting specific criteria.

Funding through the grant program can help support payroll costs, rent, utility payment and worker safety and protection expenses. Additional details on eligibility and uses are available through the U.S. Small Business Administration website at https://www.sba.gov/funding-programs/loans/covid-19-relief-options/shuttered-venue-operators-grant.

Higgins encouraged local venues to reach out to Western New York’s small business development centers with any questions or for assistance with building a strong application. In Erie County, contact the Small Business Development Center at SUNY Buffalo State at 716-878-4030 or [email protected]. Venues in Niagara County can reach out to the Niagara Small Business Development Center at716-210-2515 or [email protected].

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