SBDC Offers Businesses Educational Support

The University of Scranton SBDC offers educational programs and guidance as part of a microgrant program for new small business in the City of Scranton located in low-moderate-income demographic areas. The first businesses were granted funds through this program recently: Electric City Cuts and Fades and Pilgers’ Pastrie.

The funds are awarded to the city through the Federal Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program from the Housing and Urban Development Administration (HUD).

The CDBG Small Business Micro-Grant Program for new or early-stage businesses located in Scranton’s low-moderate-income demographic areas (LMA) will supply funds ranging from $2,500 to $5,000 per business through 2022 to assist with start-up costs, thus contributing to their initial success and continued revitalization of our community. Final applications for the microgrants must include a referral form from the SBDC, available after completing the required educational program series and/or business consulting and demonstrating appropriate business planning in accordance with program guidelines.

Qualifying businesses can find an application on the City of Scranton website.

Lisa Hall Zielinski, director of the SBDC at The University of Scranton, joined Scranton Mayor Paige G. Cognetti, at an event to announce the recipients of two microgrants awarded through the program.

The SBDC at The University of Scranton is housed in the Kania School of Management.