San Mateo County opens new funding for micro- and microfood businesses

Published on March 28, 2022

The San Mateo County board of supervisors recently approved a new round of grants to help microbusiness and microfood businesses. Applications are due by Monday, April 11, 2022. 

Microbusiness funding

• Have a business located in San Mateo County
• The business must have started before December 31, 2019
• The business must have been the main source of the business owner’s income in 2019
• The business must be legally operating (i.e. paying sales tax, registered with the state as appropriate)
• The business must have fewer than 5 employees (in 2019, 2020 and now)
• Have gross revenues (sales) under $50,000 in 2019 taxable year
• Demonstrate at least a 10% decrease in revenues from 2019 to 2020.
• Not have received the California Small Business COVID-19 Relief Grant. If you received PPP, EIDL or any county grant, you are still eligible, if you meet the other criteria.

Microfood funding

Microfood businesses that have not received any assistance from the County COVID-19-relief programs in the past 12 months. 

The Microfood Business Grant program will provide grants of $2,500, $5,000 or $10,000 to each selected business, depending on the type of business. Qualifying establishments can use the funds to offset losses in revenue and past debt due to the COVID-19 pandemic state shutdown orders beginning in March 2020, ensure continued operation, and assist in covering current business operating expenses.

View the Microfood Business Grants Frequently Ask Questions.  

For more information visit the San Mateo County Strong webpage.