Deadline Approaching! Atlantic City Invites Small Businesses to Apply for Micro Grant Program—Up to $15,000 Available

The City of Atlantic City is once again investing in its small business community through the Small Business Micro Grant Program, offering eligible for-profit businesses the chance to receive up to $15,000 in grant funding. Made possible through over $400,000 in federal funding from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), this initiative aims to help local businesses recover from the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, retain jobs, and strengthen long-term growth.

The program supports both existing small businesses and startups operating within Atlantic City limits. Funds can be used for a range of operational costs—including payroll, rent, mortgage, utilities, equipment, inventory, and other pandemic-related expenses incurred between March 3, 2021, and October 1, 2023. Startups established in 2022 or later may also qualify.

“This program continues to fulfill Mayor Marty Small, Sr.’s vision of strengthening Atlantic City’s local economy by supporting small businesses,” said Bruce Weekes, Assistant Director of Economic Development. “We encourage all eligible businesses—especially those that have previously participated in city programs—to apply and take advantage of this funding opportunity.”

Who Can Apply:
To qualify, applicants must:

• Be a for-profit business located in Atlantic City (or planning to locate there)
• Employ 50 or fewer people
• Be independently owned and operated
• Be registered in New Jersey
• Provide documentation showing financial hardship due to the pandemic

Startups must also submit a current business plan and a short narrative explaining how COVID-19 affected their operations.

How to Apply:
Applications are now open and will be accepted until October 31, 2025. Early submission is strongly encouraged, as applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.

Applicants must submit a completed application packet in one of the following ways:

1. By Email: Send your full application to bweekes@acnj.gov
2. By Mail or In Person:
   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 required documents for both existing businesses and startups, can be downloaded from www.acnj.gov or picked up in person at the address above.

For any questions or to confirm eligibility, applicants are encouraged to contact Bruce Weekes directly by email or by calling 609-347-5544. Those visiting in person are asked to reach out ahead of time to arrange pickup.

This program is part of the Small Administration’s ongoing commitment to supporting small businesses, increasing economic diversity, and helping entrepreneurs succeed in Atlantic City. It complements other free programs offered through the Economic Development Division, including the Small Business Academy, Credit Repair Program, Investment Cohort, and marketing workshops designed to help business owners grow with little-to-no budget.

With programs like these, Atlantic City continues to prove that it’s a place to live, work, and thrive—where small businesses can turn ideas into success stories and help drive the city’s bright economic future.