Elk Grove surpasses $100,000 in small business support through the Permit Assistance Smart Start (PASS) Program

BUSINESSWISE

In a significant stride towards bolstering local entrepreneurship, the City of Elk Grove, California, has proudly reached a pivotal milestone in its small business support efforts. The city has awarded over $100,000 in grants to 38 small businesses through its Permit Assistance Smart Start (PASS) program. This initiative marks a crucial step in nurturing the economic landscape of Elk Grove by making it more conducive for brick-and-mortar businesses to either lay their roots or expand their operations within the city.

2G Autobody

"I really appreciate the City of Elk Grove—everyone from planning, permitting, building, and economic development— for giving us a second opportunity to have a shop."

-Chris Gurule Sr.

The PASS program, which was thoughtfully crafted and launched in 2021, targets local businesses that are on the cusp of growth but are hindered by the financial burden of city permits and fees. By offering grants of up to $10,000, PASS significantly alleviates these costs for qualifying small businesses. To be eligible, businesses must employ fewer than 20 full-time workers, project annual revenues of under $3 million, and be starting or expanding in a commercial building. This financial support is crucial in lowering the barriers that small businesses face at their inception or during expansion phases, when access to capital is most critical, and a grant of this nature can mean the difference between a business opening its doors or remaining a dream.

Body Fit Training (BFT)

“Starting a new business requires a lot of capital. Any funding helps! I found out about this program online and the staff was super informative and supportive with all my questions. I would 100% recommend this program to others. ”

Elk Grove Tattoos

"There were moments when I felt like I didn’t have enough money or support to open my own business, but the City of Elk Grove’s guidance and their Permit Assistance program gave me the confidence and security to follow through."

Enchanted Elk Grove

"For small family-owned businesses every added expense comes from a very limited budget. We were so grateful Elk Grove had a grant program available to allow us to complete all necessary permits without sacrificing amenities for our community"

- Jaime Getz

- Edgar Avila

- Theresa Mulcrone

Reflecting the rich diversity of Elk Grove, the demographics of PASS recipients align closely with those of the city's residents, showcasing the program's reach across a broad spectrum of the community. The success stories emerging from the PASS program are as varied as they are inspiring. For instance, 2G Autobody is a family owned state-of-the-art automotive body and paint shop offering top-quality services for all vehicle makes and models; Body Fit Training (BFT) leverages scientific principles to offer group training programs tailored to all fitness levels; Elk Grove Tattoos is a tattoo parlor specializing in black and gray realism, portraits, and custom tattoos both big and small in scale; and Enchanted Elk Grove is an indoor play center that fosters a safe and imaginative environment for children to explore and engage in play. These businesses, and all the others supported by the PASS program, underscore the varied ways in which targeted financial assistance can empower entrepreneurs to serve and enrich their community with unique and essential services.

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These businesses highlight the broad impact of the PASS program on the local economy, demonstrating how targeted financial support can fuel the dreams of entrepreneurs and serve the community's diverse needs. As Elk Grove continues to grow and evolve, initiatives like the PASS program are essential in ensuring that the city remains a vibrant, inclusive, and economically robust community.

Learn More About Elk Grove's PASS Program

About the City of Elk Grove

Elk Grove is a young, ethnically diverse, modern city of 178,000 people located in the dynamic and affordable Sacramento metropolitan region, the capital of the 5th largest economy in the world. Incorporated in 2000, Elk Grove is a family- and business-friendly community with low crime, excellent schools, over 100 community parks, elevated dining and shopping options, lively events and festivals, and over 270 sunny days per year. With its highly educated workforce, modern facilities and infrastructure, and pro-business attitude, it's clear why major corporations and institutions such as Apple, Cardinal Health, Amazon, UC Davis, AllData, and Kubota call Elk Grove home. Our dedicated staff of economic development professionals are ready to help you plan, finance, and fast-track your next business expansion or relocation project. Contact us today.

Visit the Office of Economic Development

City of Elk Grove

Office of Economic Development

8401 Laguna Palms Way

Elk Grove, CA 95758

(916) 627-3338

TTY 888-435-6092

Relay Service 711