Novato Provides Grants to Small Business Owners in the Community
The Novato Small Business Relief Fund was developed and launched in late April in partnership with the City of Novato, Downtown Novato Business Association, Novato Chamber of Commerce, County of Marin, MarinLink, and Bank of Marin.
A total of $380,000 in donations from local businesses and residents wanting to support the small business community has been distributed to grant recipients, including $50,000 contributions from the City of Novato and County of Marin. Take-Two, parent company for international videogame publisher 2K located in Novato, was the founding sponsor of the fund with a $200,000 donation.
“2K’s headquarters has been in Novato for over a decade. Many of our employees live and shop in the area and the small business community has been good to us. We have made a commitment to give back to the community and wanted to show our support with this contribution during this difficult time. We hope this will serve as an inspiration to others who can contribute as well,” said 2K President David Ismailer.
The City received over 100 applications and the Small Business Relief Fund Selection Committee approved 76 businesses to each receive $5,000 in grant funds. 
“This has been a difficult time for any small business owner, and this generous grant is much needed relief to keep our bakery advancing through future uncertainties,” said Michelle Mahoney, owner of Teeny Cake and Novato Small Business Relief Fund Grant recipient. “The generosity of our community has been incredible, and we are hopeful that the contributions to our local businesses will help them thrive as we reopen.”
The Novato Small Business Fund shows how LocalWorks in Novato to help small business owners impacted by COVID-19 stay afloat during the pandemic. To learn more, visit this page.