BCF Launches Small Business Direct Grant Program for Key Bridge Collapse Recovery

New phase of $5 million Small Business Support program provides critical relief from BCF’s Maryland Tough Baltimore Strong Key Bridge Fund

The Baltimore Community Foundation (BCF), in collaboration with the Greater Baltimore Committee (GBC), today announced its Key Bridge Small Business Direct Grant Program to provide direct cash assistance for businesses severely impacted by the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse last March. Backed by BCF’s Maryland Tough Baltimore Strong Key Bridge Fund, this initiative will give priority to businesses located in Southeastern Baltimore City, Southeastern Baltimore County, and Northern Anne Arundel County.

The online applications for the grants will open on February 18 and close on March 20, followed by a 30-day review period. 

“As the backbone of our communities, small businesses in the impacted communities have felt immense financial strain since the Key Bridge collapse,” said BCF’s President and CEO Shanaysha Sauls. “This program is designed to give them the working capital they need to adapt and continue contributing to the economic vitality of our region.”

“In Maryland, we move mission-first, people-always. After the collapse of the Key Bridge, we worked in partnership with leaders across the public and private sectors and all levels of government to protect and uplift our small businesses. And today, we take another step forward in our commitment to that pledge, said Gov. Wes Moore. “I want to thank the Baltimore Community Foundation for their continued leadership and for proving what it means to be Maryland Tough and Baltimore Strong.”

About the Maryland Tough Baltimore Strong Key Bridge Fund and Key Bridge Small Business Direct Grant Program

Established within 48 hours of the Key Bridge collapse, the Maryland Tough Baltimore Strong Key Bridge Fund has grown to $16 million through support from national, regional, and local businesses and donations from individuals. Its resources have supported direct cash assistance for Port of Baltimore workers, grants to charitable organizations and community-strengthening programs providing relief to those affected, and more recently, capacity building and financial aid to area small businesses.

Partner Organizations

The Key Bridge Small Business Direct Grant Program addresses the losses in revenue, increased costs, and operational challenges stemming from the collapse. Grants will range from $10,000 to $50,000, helping businesses stabilize operations, pivot business models, and invest in long-term viability.

Eligible businesses may submit applications online in English starting on February 18. Applications will only be accepted through one of the following designated partner organizations, all of whom have staff available to assist applicants in Spanish or in English:

Anne Arundel County Economic Development Corporation (AAEDC)

• For applicants located in Anne Arundel County or other parts of Maryland: Apply here

Baltimore Community Lending (BCL)

• For applicants located in Baltimore City or other parts of Maryland: Apply here

Latino Economic Development Center (LEDC)

• For applicants located in Baltimore County or other parts of Maryland: Apply here

BCF and its partners will coordinate on grant evaluation and fund distribution to ensure an equitable and efficient process. Additional support and guidance will be provided during the application period, ensuring businesses receive the assistance needed to sustain operations and continue serving the community.

Eligibility requirements for the Key Bridge Small Business Direct Grant Program:

• Demonstrate significant impact from the Key Bridge collapse; preference will be given to businesses located in Southeastern Baltimore City, Southeastern Baltimore County, and Northern Anne Arundel County.
• Must provide a 2023 profit and loss statement, along with a year-end 2024 balance sheet and 2024 profit and loss statement to demonstrate viability and feasibility.
• Must have been operational for at least two years as of March 26, 2024, with a minimum revenue of $50,000 for one of the prior two years.
• Must employ at least two people, including owner(s).

“The collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge on March 26, 2024 significantly affected small businesses throughout the impacted areas of Baltimore City, Baltimore County, and Anne Arundel County,” said GBC President and CEO Mark Anthony Thomas. “The establishment of today’s Key Bridge Small Business Direct Grant program will be instrumental in supporting the small businesses and healthy commercial corridors that are central to a strong regional economy.”

Start Your Application

Grants for Small Businesses

• Key Bridge Small Business Direct Grant Program: This Program provides direct cash assistance for small businesses severely impacted by the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse in March of 2024. Nonprofit status is not required. Learn More.

Grants for Nonprofits (Small Biz Support)

• Key Bridge Small Business Support Grant: In September 2024, BCF and GBC launched the Key Bridge Small Business Support Grant to help nonprofits support small businesses in Southeast Baltimore County, Southeast Baltimore, and North Anne Arundel County recovering from the Key Bridge collapse. Funding supports technical assistance, marketing, strategic planning, place-based improvements, and more. Rolling applications available for eligible nonprofits. If you are a small business looking for direct grant funding, please visit the ‘Grants for Small Businesses’ above. Learn More.