WASHINGTON, DC – Congresswoman Carolyn B. Maloney (D-NY) on April 7 announced that more help is here for local businesses and jobs as the Small Business Administration’s Shuttered Venue Operators Grant (SVOG) program begins accepting applications Thursday, April 8. Congresswoman Maloney helped secure additional funding for the program as part of the American Rescue Plan’s support for small businesses. The program includes a total of more than $16 billion in grants for shuttered venues.

“New York’s theaters, clubs, and live entertainment venues are as essential to New York City as coffee carts and hot dog stands. As we look to bring our city back to its fullest potential, we need to make sure that we take care of the entertainment industry, including live venue operators, theatrical producers, theater operators, and other establishments which have been forced to close during the pandemic,” said Rep. Maloney. “The Shuttered Venue Operators Grant program will help New Yorkers get back to doing what they love and help us save some of our city’s most beloved institutions.”

Who Can Apply:

• Live venue operators or promoters
• Theatrical producers
• Live performing arts organization operators
• Relevant museum operators, zoos, and aquariums who meet specific criteria
• Motion picture theater operators
• Talent representatives
• Each business entity owned by an eligible entity that also meets the eligibility requirements

Applicants must have been in operation as of February 29, 2020. A venue or promoter who received a PPP loan on or after December 27, 2020, will have the SVOG reduced by the PPP loan amount. More information is available online: https://www.sba.gov/funding-programs/loans/covid-19-relief-options/shuttered-venue-operators-grant.

Venue operates can use their grants for payroll costs, rent payments, utility payments, work protection expenditures, and more. Local venue operators can get more information on how to apply at SBA.gov and https://www.svograntportal.sba.gov/s/.