City of Atlantic City Opens Application Process for Small Business Micro Grant Program
The City of Atlantic City is now accepting applications for its Small Business Micro Grant Program, made possible through over $400,000 in federal funding from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA). This initiative is designed to support small, for-profit businesses located within city limits that were negatively impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Each Eligible business can receive grants of up to $15,000 to help recover from financial hardship, retain jobs, and build long-term resiliency. For existing businesses, this grant includes a reimbursement-based program. Funds can be used for pandemic-related costs like payroll, rent, mortgage, utilities, equipment, inventory, and other operational costs incurred between March 3, 2021, and October 1, 2023. Startups and newer businesses established in 2022 or later may also be eligible.
“This program is a key part of our commitment to fulfilling Mayor Marty Small, Sr.’s vision of strengthening Atlantic City’s local economy by supporting our small businesses,” said Bruce Weekes, Assistant Director of Economic Development for the City of Atlantic City. “We encourage all eligible businesses—especially those that have previously benefited from city programs—to apply for this grant opportunity and take the next step toward growing and diversifying their operations.”
To qualify, businesses must:
- Be a for-profit entity located in Atlantic City, or will be located in Atlantic City
- Employ 50 or fewer people
- Be independently owned and operated
- Be registered in New Jersey
- Provide documentation of financial hardship caused by the pandemic
Startups must submit a current business plan and a narrative explaining the impact of COVID-19 on their operations.
The application deadline is October 31, 2025. Applications will be reviewed by city staff on a rolling basis, so early submission is encouraged.
To apply, applicants must submit a completed application packet either by email to [email protected]
or by mail/in-person delivery to the Department of Planning & Development, Attn: Bruce Weekes, 1301 Bacharach Blvd., Suite 506, Atlantic City, NJ 08401.
Application materials and full program guidelines, including a list of all required documents for existing businesses and startups, can be picked up at the above address or are available online at www.acnj.gov. For questions or to determine eligibility for specific expenses, businesses are encouraged to email Bruce Weekes or call him directly at 609-347-5544. Applicants picking up materials in person are asked to reach out to Bruce Weekes ahead of their arrival.
