Business Assistance Programs

CDBG Job Creation & Business Incentive Grant Program

The City of Claremont offers financial assistance through the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Job Creation and Business Incentive Grant Program to support economic growth and job creation for low- to moderate-income residents.

Program Goals

  • Support business expansion and retention in Claremont
  • Create permanent full-time equivalent (FTE) jobs for income-eligible individuals
  • Generate additional sales tax revenue and enhance local economic activity
  • Encourage new businesses to fill commercial vacancies

Funding & Eligibility

  • Forgivable loans start at $25,000 per project
  • Eligible businesses must generate sales tax and create at least one full-time job per $25,000 awarded
  • Funds may be used for leasehold improvements, equipment purchases, working capital, or building renovations

Eligible Business Types

The program prioritizes funding for businesses that contribute to the local economy, including:

  • Retail & Commercial: General consumer goods, home improvement stores, electronics, health and sporting goods, grocery/import stores, furniture, auto dealerships, clothing and shoe stores, kitchen equipment, bookstores, entertainment stores, gift shops, musical instruments, boutique day spas (selling taxable items)
  • Food & Dining: Full-service restaurants, upscale fast food establishments
  • Entertainment: Movie theaters (with concessions), live theaters (with concessions)

Application Process

Applications are accepted year-round and reviewed on a rolling basis. A Loan Committee evaluates proposals based on job creation potential, economic impact, and business feasibility.

For more information or to apply, contact Sr. Management Analyst Alex Cousins at acousins@claremontca.gov or (909) 399-5323.

Small Business Grant Program - ARPA Funds
Program Now Closed

The City offered a small business grant program using American Rescue Plan Act funds to assist Claremont small business impacted by the pandemic on 2023-24. The City issued a total of $285k in ARPA small business grants to 19 Claremont businesses.

The Claremont Small Business Grant Program offered eligible small businesses grants of up to $20,000 to create or retain a job for a low- or moderate-income person. The standard grant amount is $15,000 and an additional $5,000 is offered for businesses that participate in the Claremont Colleges IC2 Internship Program. The grant funds can be used for a variety of operating and business expenses, including rent and utility assistance, obtaining inventory and supplies, payroll, employee hiring and retention, and marketing.

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