YORK COUNTY — The York County Economic Development Authority (EDA) and Economic & Tourism Development Department (ETD) announced their new Small Business Marketing Grant, which joins six other recently enhanced grants in their business incentives program.
The EDA approved the initiative, which the county said was created to support the growth and success of small local businesses.
The grant provides financial assistance for a new, one-time promotional effort to help enhance visibility, attract new customers and increase revenue for small local businesses. Eligible businesses can apply for matched funds of up to $2,500 to cover a marketing expense.
Expenses include, but are not limited to:
- Digital advertising
- Social media campaigns
- Print media
- Outdoor advertising
- Vehicle wraps
- Branding
- Broadcast
The county notes nearly all of its other six matching grants are aimed at small businesses — including one for websites and e-commerce, one for home-based businesses transitioning to a commercial space, one to create a Google virtual tour, and a broad business-growth grant to cover a one-time expense.
“Marketing is crucial for the success of small businesses, as it drives customer engagement and brand recognition,” said Jeff Clemons, chairman of the York County Economic Development Authority. “This new program is a game changer because it provides our local entrepreneurs with the financial support they need to maintain and enhance their marketing efforts. By investing in their promotional strategies, we are investing in the long-term prosperity of our community.”
According to the county, to be eligible for the new Small Business Marketing Grant, businesses must meet the following criteria:
- Be a for-profit business that’s licensed in York County
- Have 25 or fewer employees
- Receive grant approval before any work begins
- Not be in default or non-compliance with any county programs, ordinances or taxes
- Demonstrate a need for marketing assistance and a clear plan for how the grant funds will be used
Applications for the Small Business Marketing Grant program are accepted as of Aug. 1 and will be reviewed on a rolling basis until grant funds are exhausted.
“Small businesses are the backbone of York County’s economy, and we are committed to supporting their growth and success,” said Kristi Olsen-Hayes, director of the County’s Economic & Tourism Development Department. “We understand that when times get tough, marketing expenses are often the first to be cut. Through this new grant program, we hope to underscore the importance and ROI of marketing. We’re here to provide the necessary resources for our small businesses to reach new customers and grow their brand.”
As part of the EDA’s recent review of its program offerings, enhancements were also made to several existing grant programs that provide more funding and easier access for existing businesses seeking financial assistance:
- The Business Growth Grant now offers matching grants up to $4,000 per business, up from $2,500
- The E-Commerce Grant now offers up to $750 in matching funds, up from $500
- The Home-based Business Transition Grant now offers $2,500, up from $2,000.
Additionally, it notes several programs now include clauses for small, woman and minority (SWaM) owned businesses and veteran-owned businesses.
Interested companies can review the program qualifications and apply for funds online for all York County’s assistance programs at yesyorkcounty.com/3919/Incentive-Programs.
