Everett offers $1 million in grants to boost city’s economy

Published 4:30 pm Friday, August 6, 2021

EVERETT — The City of Everett is offering $1 million in grants to people and businesses that can help get the city’s economy rolling.

The Everett Forward Grant Program offers one-time grants of $5,000 or more to eligible projects that support economic recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic. The program is funded by the federal American Rescue Plan Act.

“Everett’s economic recovery requires creativity and collaboration across all of Everett. Whether you’re a business, a nonprofit, an artist or an active neighborhood group, if you have a program or project that will help move Everett forward, we want to hear from you,” city officials said in a news release.

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis every Thursday, beginning Aug. 12, and continue until all funds are awarded.

Here are examples of the type of applications being sought:

Brick-and-mortar businesses: Grants can help retailers and restaurants by funding outdoor dining, outdoor furniture, weather protection, signage, bike racks and landscaping.

Arts, culture and experiences: Grants can stimulate tourism, support artists and bolster venues by funding public art, performances and other events.

Education, child care, STEM and entrepreneurship: Grants can fund projects that support workers and working families, train future leaders and foster entrepreneurs.

Human services: Grants can encourage commerce and walkability by supporting human service programs.

“We want to use this opportunity to build up Everett’s economy, vibe and amenities so they’re better than before the pandemic,” said Dan Eernissee, Everett’s economic development director.

To apply go to everettwa.gov/forwardgrant.

Application materials are available in English and Spanish. For other languages, the city offers translation services.