Grant Opportunity for City of Bluefield Startups

Bluefield, WV – The Bluefield WV Economic Development Authority (BEDA), in partnership with the Development Authority of the Greater Bluefield Area (DAGBA) and Truist, is pleased to announce the Small Business Success Center Technical Assistance Program (TAP) grant opportunity which is open to recent startups and aspiring entrepreneurs.

BEDA conducts an annual survey of businesses in the city and region in order to gauge what businesses need to be successful. The 2021 study proved our startup businesses and aspiring entrepreneurs need technical assistance now more than ever. TAP aims to provide at least 10 entrepreneurs with funding (not to exceed $500 per applicant) to assist with hurdles in starting their business. Funding will be on a reimbursement basis. Expenditures made prior to applying and/or expenditures made without approval from BEDA are not eligible for funding.

The following entities are eligible for this program:

• New Businesses in the City of Bluefield (Started on or after January 1, 2021)

• Entrepreneurs with plans to start a new business in the City of Bluefield (No later than January 1, 2023)

The following are not eligible for this program:

• Non-profit organizations

• Entities that started/formed before January 1, 2021

• Entities outside of the City of Bluefield

The following is considered Technical Assistance:

• Legal Services

• Copyright & Patent Services

• CPA/Accounting Services

• QuickBooks or other Bookkeeping Assistance

• Website or Marketing Assistance

• IT-Related Consulting/Services

• Prototyping Assistance

• Other Professional Services

The following is not considered Technical Assistance:

• Purchasing Equipment

• Paying Rent/Utilities

• Managing Debt

Interested individuals can learn more and apply at www.mybluefield.org/tap

Questions regarding the Technical Assistance Program should be directed to Jim Spencer at jspencer@bluewv.org or (304) 902-2332 x 1