Small businesses in San Antonio that were severely affected by COVID and construction have recently received a substantial boost.
All of this is part of a grant program involving the San Antonio Development Services and LiftFund. In the course of this program, more than $2.4 million were granted.
The Hair Palace, owned by Alyce Sanchez off Old Highway 90, was one of the 91 businesses to receive funding. She stated that the funds were essential.
“My customers can’t even get in here,” she said. “Me and the girls have to go outside and roll them (cones) away.”
She has been burdened by COVID and construction for the past few years.
Nearly 100 Alamo City companies received $2.4 million.
Brenda Hicks-Sorensen, director of economic development for the city of San Antonio, stated that businesses were experiencing a double whammy.
“We are aware of the supply chain challenges that businesses face,” she stated.As costs continue to rise, there was apprehension of a recession. Then they struggled with construction-related customer loss.”
Sanchez stated that her westside business has been encompassed by orange cones for more than two years.
“Now it looks a little better,” she said. However, it is perplexing because they only offer one route.
Consequently, the city established this grant program for enterprises. There were requirements that businesses had to satisfy, such as locating in one of 15 construction corridors.
“Small businesses are really the heart and soul of the community,” said Hicks-Sorensen.
Sanchez submitted a program application.
“She was like, wow, you got it,” she stated. Similar to what. I began paying all of the expenses. I was like sure. “I would likely still be behind on my expenses or they would have accumulated even more.”
The average grant is valued at $26,856.46.