ITHACA, NY (607NewsNow) — New small business grants are available in Ithaca.

The Downtown Ithaca Alliance is re-launching the Ithaca Retail Mini-Grant Program. City officials say the grants can help businesses still reeling from the COVID-19 pandemic. Independently owned businesses with fewer than 500 employees and a physical storefront in the city open before March 3, 2021, are eligible for the grant money.

“We’re excited to collaborate with the Downtown Ithaca Alliance on this important citywide initiative. Local independent retailers are what make the Commons, Downtown, Collegetown, the West End and West MLK Corridor special places with unique local character,” Mayor Robert Cantelmo said. “This initiative is part of the City’s commitment to helping them thrive.”

According to a statement, “all awarded projects require a 10% cash match from the business, with maximum grant amounts ranging from $2,000 to $10,000, depending on the category.”

“The IRMG is designed to spark collaboration, draw customers back to our commercial districts, and energize local businesses through strategic investments,” DIA CEO Nan Rohrer said. “We’re especially excited to support physical improvements that further elevate the pedestrian and customer experience in our city while also highlighting Ithaca’s charm as a destination for locals and visitors.”

Applications are open until June 16th. You can find application materials and guidelines here.