The City of Erie has opened the latest round of Flagship Grant opportunities for small businesses and entrepreneurs. 

The City of Erie Flagship Fund is a micro-grant program designed to provide financial assistance to support market-ready products and services while working to enhance the City's reputation for innovation and creativity. 

"Small Businesses are part of what makes Erie unique and exciting. We created the Flagship grant program shortly after I took office in 2018 to assist small business owners by using some of the interest that is being earned from our revolving loan funds," said Mayor Joe Schember. 

This year, funding awards will be granted up to $5,000. A 1 to 1 match is required, and grant dollars will be awarded on a reimbursement basis. 

City of Erie Flagship Fund eligibility and uses: 

  • Who is eligible to apply?
    • A registered business in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania with a physical address within the City of Erie
    • Preference given to businesses with 25 or fewer employees
    • Preference is also given to for-profit entities, however non-profit organizations may apply
    • Member-based organizations and associations are able to apply if they have a mission or
      vision to improve the business climate in the City of Erie
    • Locally owned franchise owners may apply.
    • Projects must be completed within one year of the award announcement from the City, unless otherwise approved.
    • The City reserves the right to review proposed estimates, quotes, or other financial information
      directly related to the grant project.
  • Some of the eligible use of funds include:
    • Marketing and advertising expenses
    • Façade and building improvements
    • Specialized equipment
    • Computer hardware or software
    • Website development

More information on the Flagship Fund can be found here.