Spark Wilkes-Barre Grant Program is no longer accepting new applications at this time.
The Spark Wilkes-Barre Grant Program was launched to generate economic development activity in our region by facilitating the growth of new companies and relocation of existing businesses to the City of Wilkes-Barre. This program will provide financial incentives that correspond with the completion of free current and existing business development curriculum modules, provided by Wilkes-Barre Connect partners - pairing educational pathways with grant funding to help you successfully launch your business and ensure its sustainability in a Wilkes-Barre City location.
Spark Wilkes-Barre is a grant program available to entrepreneurs, start-up businesses, or relocating businesses that can be used towards rent in year one of a lease at an approved location within the City of Wilkes-Barre, as well as reimbursable parking fees. There are three tiers of funding available, depending upon where you are in your business lifecycle, and how many employees you currently have. The business applying for grant funding must be located in the City of Wilkes-Barre to be eligible for funding.Â
The Spark Wilkes-Barre Grant Program is funded by the City of Wilkes-Barre's American Rescue Plan Act's Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds. This program is administered by the Greater Wilkes-Barre Industrial Fund, and powered by the Greater Wyoming Valley Chamber of Commerce and the City of Wilkes-Barre.
If you need more information on the program or would like assistance completing the application, please contact the Greater Wyoming Valley Chamber at 570-823-2101.
Level 1: Startup - Incubator Tenant
Definition:
Entrepreneurs or startup businesses that have been in existence for six months or less.
Requirements:
- Applicant must schedule an initial consultation with the Wilkes University SBDC (reachable at 570-408-4340), and, if recommended, complete their business development training program. Applicants must also enroll in the Wilkes-Barre Connect Program. By enrolling in this grant program, the grantee agrees to complete this course. Funds are subject to this agreement and may be revoked if the grantee fails to comply.
- Funds can only be used towards rent in year one of lease or employee parking fees.
- Grant Recipient must sign a minimum 24-month lease with participating location.
- Completion of quarterly impact survey.
- Copy of your Wilkes-Barre City business privilege/mercantile license.
Level 2: New Business - Brick & Mortar
Definition:
New businesses or startups that have been in existence for six months or less and are looking to open a brick & mortar location.
Requirements:
- Applicant must schedule an initial consultation with the Wilkes University SBDC (reachable at 570-408-4340), and, if recommended, complete their business development training program. Applicants must also enroll in the Wilkes-Barre Connect Program. By enrolling in this grant program, the grantee agrees to complete this course. Funds are subject to this agreement and may be revoked if the grantee fails to comply.
- Funds can only be used towards rent/mortgage or acquisition in year one of lease or employee parking fees.
- Grant Recipient must sign a minimum 24-month lease with participating location.
- Completion of quarterly impact survey.
- Copy of your Wilkes-Barre City business privilege/mercantile license.
Level 3: Existing Business Brick & Mortar Relocation
Definition:
Existing businesses, currently located outside of the City of Wilkes-Barre that would like to relocate to Wilkes-Barre City to open a brick & mortar location.
Requirements:
- Certificate of Good Standing (Commonwealth of PA).
- Employee verification.
- Funds can be used towards rent/mortgage or acquisition in year one of lease.
- Grant Recipient must sign a minimum 36-month lease with participating location.
- Completion of quarterly impact survey.
- Copy of your Wilkes-Barre City business privilege/mercantile license.
