Paso Robles small business owners receive federal CARES Act funds

PASO ROBLES, Calif. - A much-needed financial boost is on the way to small business owners in Paso Robles.

$200,000 dollars in federal CARES Act funds will be disbursed through the City’s COVID-19 Small Business Grant Program with individual, one-time grants. 

The program was created shortly after the pandemic hit and has helped business owners keep their employees on the payroll and their doors open.

More than 100 applications were submitted to the City with grant requests totaling more than $1 million dollars -- far exceeding the set amount. 

33 local businesses employing more than 200 people in various locations and sectors were chosen this week by the Selection Committee. 

Two local businesses awarded grants graciously declined as their businesses are surviving better than had been projected. Joe’s Place and Max House Cleaning Service both expressed the desire to “pay it forward” and have the grant funds go to other local businesses experiencing greater financial difficulty.

The following organization will be re-awarded the available funds:

•    Thrive Training Center Gymnastics School

•    Class Act Dance & Performing Arts Studio                

•    Applause Children's Theater

The City of Paso Robles would like to offer a heartfelt shout-out to these local champions for their kindness and for reminding us what a great town we live in, and that we will get through this together.

For businesses still seeking assistance, additional information about business resources, including a new low-interest COVID-19 loan program being offered by Southland Economic Development Corporation to businesses in San Luis Obispo County, is available online at https://www.prcity.com/887/Business-Resources.