Groton ―The Town of Groton announced in a news release the launch of the Small Business Pivot Grant Program to provide financial support to local businesses impacted by COVID-19 pandemic-related challenges.

“The program, funded through the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), is designed to empower small businesses in Groton, fostering resilience, innovation, and growth within the local economy,” the release states.

The program offers grants up to $5,000 to eligible small businesses in Groton.

“These grants are intended to facilitate investments in adaptation, such as upgrading infrastructure, enhancing online presence, or implementing innovative marketing strategies,” according to the release. “Smaller grants are available for aesthetic improvements.”

Small business owners can download the application at https://www.greatergroton.com/pivot. The application period will remain open until Nov. 30.

To apply for the program, businesses must meet eligibility criteria, including having actively operated within Groton for a minimum of 24 months, and demonstrating a negative impact from the pandemic.

More information is available on the program website or by contacting the program administrator, Sam Eisenbeiser, Town of Groton Economic Development specialist, at seisenbeiser@groton-ct.gov or (860) 446-5981.