Local First Arizona starts COVID-19 relief fund to help small businesses

PHOENIX — As Arizona small businesses continue to suffer financial fallout due to the coronavirus pandemic, some much-needed relief has been launched by Local First Arizona.

The local economic development organization launched an initiative Friday which seeks to provide immediate financial relief to Arizona’s small businesses, according to a press release.

The relief is said to provide immediate cash flow in the form of mini grants to help with expenses such as rent and employee payroll.

“It’s a devastating and uncertain time to be a small business owner in Arizona,” said Kimber Lanning, founder of Local Arizona First.

“Everything you love is on the line, but the community you’re ingrained in is still at top of mind… We ask others to join us, the health of our local economy and state depend on it.”

To qualify for available relief funds, a business must have an annual revenue of less than $250,000 and be the sole source of income for a family.

Businesses may submit an online application only once.

Priority will be given to businesses owned by a family with children under 18 in their household.

Those interested in donating can do so online.

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