Governor Kelly announced that $16 billion in federal grants will be available to local venues through the Shuttered Venue Operators Grant (SVOG) program by the Small Business Administration (SBA).
Eligible applicants may qualify for the program equal to 45% of their gross earned revenue for 2019, with the maximum amount available for a single grant of $10 million. $2 billion is reserved for eligible venues that have up to 50 full-time employees.
The SVOG program was established by the Economic Aid to Heard-Hit Small Businesses, Nonprofits, and Venues Act that was signed into law on Dec. 27th, 2020.
Eligible applicants must have been in in operation by Feb. 29th, 2020 and include:
- Live venue operators/promoters
- Theatrical producers
- Live performing arts organization operators
- Relevant museum operators, zoos, and aquariums
- Motion picture theater operators
- Venue must have fixed seating
- Talent representatives
- Owners of eligible business entities
Adam Hartke, co-owner of the Cotillion in Wichita said “The COVID-19 pandemic has been catastrophic for our industry, with most venues facing 95%+ revenue loss,” said Adam Hartke, co-owner of the Cotillion in Wichita.
Jessie Hartke, Cotillion co-owner added, “Prior to COVID, our economic impact within Kansas was over $400 million annually, and we brought tens of thousands of tourists to Kansas from across the county for shows at our venues every year…we are ready to get back to work, and with the continued overwhelming support of the State of Kansas, grow our industry for years to come, gaining Kansas the recognition it deserves as a vital tour stop for traveling musicians, and shedding light on the vast depth of local talent found within our local communities.”
Governor Kelly said of the SVOG program, “I strongly support the SBA’s efforts to aid these important local businesses. These grants will ensure venues emerge from the pandemic with the resources they need, and I encourage all Kansas venues that are eligible to apply for the program.”
To learn more, or to apply, click here.
