The Johnson County Underestimated Small Business Grants program supports small businesses in Johnson County, Iowa, that were disproportionately impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic or are located in Qualified Census Tracts (QCTs). Offering grants between $3,500 and $20,000, the program aims to help local businesses cover operating costs, improve storefronts, and sustain operations. Applications open on January 1, 2025, and close on January 31, 2025. The program is part of a collaborative initiative by the Community Foundation of Johnson County (CFJC), Greater Iowa City, Inc. (Greater IC), and the South of 6 Initiative, all dedicated to promoting economic resilience and inclusivity.

The program offers two types of grants: Operational Support Grants, which can be used for payroll, rent, utilities, and similar expenses, and Storefront Improvement Grants, which support physical upgrades such as interior renovations and accessibility improvements. Eligible businesses must be for-profit entities located in Johnson County with at least 50% ownership by individuals from underserved groups, including BIPOC individuals, women, people with disabilities, LGBTQ+ individuals, immigrants, or refugees. Businesses must also demonstrate financial hardship due to COVID-19 or be located in a QCT as defined by HUD guidelines.

Applications are submitted online via the Community Foundation’s grant portal, requiring registration and completion of a self-attestation form. The portal is designed to be user-friendly, with multilingual resources and weekly in-person support sessions to assist applicants. Support includes sessions at locations such as South District Market, Coralville Library, and North Liberty Library, as well as additional sessions at the Center for Worker Justice and IC Compassion. On-site childcare, transportation assistance, and a $25 stipend for completing the application are also available.

The selection process emphasizes equitable representation, with a review committee comprising individuals with lived and professional experience relevant to the program’s goals. This committee assesses applications based on alignment with program objectives, financial need, and potential community impact. Feedback from this and future rounds will improve the grant process and accessibility.

This initiative includes three grant cycles in 2025, with the first round taking place in winter, followed by rounds in early summer and fall. Businesses that are not funded in one round may reapply in subsequent cycles. Grant awards for the first round will be announced in spring 2025.

To apply, businesses must meet income limits if classified as impacted by COVID-19. Specific thresholds based on household size are outlined in the Area Median Income (AMI) limits for 2024. Additional resources, including maps of QCTs and informational flyers, are available to help applicants understand eligibility and requirements.

For more information, businesses can contact Greater Iowa City, Inc., at info@greateriowacity.com or (319) 337-9637. Applicants are encouraged to utilize the provided resources to ensure a successful application.