Edited release
03/15/23
The City of Iowa City has launched an $4 million Inclusive Economic Development Program targeting underestimated businesses and entrepreneurs located in Iowa City.
The City is now accepting Statements of Interest within two categories:
The first is Physical Space for multicultural business hubs, business collaboration spaces (shared retail, kitchens, etc.), and youth entrepreneurial and community centers. Eligible expenses include land acquisition, construction, remodeling, furniture and equipment, technology, and associated soft costs.
The second category is Business Support Programs that include small business grants and/or financing programs, technical assistance, community navigating services, and similar support networks. Eligible expenses include programs that offer support to individual businesses. Requests for operational or technical assistance for individual businesses is not an eligible request at this time.
For full program details and submission guidelines, please review the Request for Statements of Interest available on the city’s website. A link to the page is provided under this story at 1630 KCJJ dot com and on the new KCJJ app.
https://www.icgov.org/city-government/city-manager%27s-office/american-rescue-plan-act-funds
Interested applicants are encouraged to attend one of two informational open house sessions on Thursday, April 6th. The first session option will begin at noon and the second session option will begin at 6 p.m. Both will be held in Harvat Hall at Iowa City City Hall, 410 E. Washington St.
Statements of Interest are due by 4:00 p.m. on May 1, 2023. Questions about the program may be directed to Deputy City Manager Redmond Jones at rjones@iowa-city.org or 319-356-5012.