Updates from the Office of Economic Development

BRACE Grant Deadline Extended

OED’s Building Resiliency Among Charlottesville Entrepreneurs Grant (BRACE) application deadline has been extended until July 29th at 5:00pm. The application and detailed information can be found HERE 
 
This round of BRACE Grant requirements are new and we want to ensure business owners understand the process and ask questions.
 
The BRACE grant is targeted for businesses that have adapted their business process. Businesses that have adjusted and improved due to COVID can apply for reimbursements if costs were incurred within the last 6 months.  Additionally, businesses can apply for a grant for future purchases to be utilized within the next two months.
 
Examples from current applications have been for improved manufacturing procedures, advertising new services, and upgrading equipment for easier sanitizing. This round of BRACE grants does require a 30% business match for funding. For example, to qualify for the maximum grant amount of $2,500 the business must demonstrate qualifying expenses totaling $3,250.
 
If you have questions, please reach out to OED staff.