City of Lancaster Small Business Development Equipment Grant Program

The City of Lancaster has introduced the Small Business Development Equipment Grant Program through Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funding. This program is aimed at bolstering local economic growth and job creation by providing financial support to small businesses for the acquisition of essential equipment. The funding initiative specifically supports businesses located within the city limits that are seeking to expand or enhance their operations through strategic investment in equipment. Eligible businesses may receive up to $15,000 to purchase new equipment that is essential to their operations and has a minimum useful life of five years. Acceptable examples include food service and commercial kitchen equipment, salon equipment, and manufacturing machinery. However, the grant does not cover costs associated with equipment installation. To qualify, the equipment must directly support the creation of at least one new job for a low- to moderate-income (LMI) individual, with that job being maintained for at least two years. Applicants must have 20 or fewer employees and have operated continuously for at least two years prior to applying. They must also be current on city taxes and utilities and possess a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) number obtained through the IRS. Businesses awarded funding must adhere to CDBG compliance measures, which include collecting self-declaration income forms from job applicants, submitting ongoing job creation status reports, and completing job monitoring worksheets throughout the two-year job retention period. Applications will be accepted until June 15, 2025, or until available funds are exhausted. This is a competitive reimbursement program, meaning funding is limited and only reimbursed for approved purchases after documentation. Early submission is encouraged, particularly for applicants with clearly defined projects demonstrating strong potential for job creation and sustained community impact. Applications must be submitted online through the Community Development Department's website. Technical assistance is available for applicants who need support during the application process. Further guidance will be provided to selected awardees following the review process. The program is managed by the Community Development Department located at 104 E Main Street, 1st Floor, Lancaster, OH 43130. For inquiries, applicants can contact the department by phone at 740-687-6663 or via email at cdd@ci.lancaster.oh.us.