Congressman Jim Himes announces opening of the Shuttered Venue Operators Grant Program

Press Release

Congressman Jim Himes (CT-04) announced the Small Business Administration's Shuttered Venue Operators Grant (SVOG) Program will begin accepting applications today, Thursday, April 8th. SVOG allocates $16 billion for local theaters and entertainment venues to cover expenses including payroll, rent, utilities. Local venues can apply for assistance HERE.

Himes advocated for SVOG funding as part of the American Rescue Plan (ARP), which President Biden signed into law last month.

"To stop the spread of COVID-19, our community sacrificed attending movies, museums, and live shows, which cut revenue for our local theaters and stages," said Himes. "I'm pleased that venue operators in Southwest Connecticut will be able to apply for desperately needed relief starting today. The SVOG will help venues stay open, keep workers on the payroll, and boost our local economy."

Who Can Apply:

Live venue operators or promoters
Theatrical producers
Live performing arts organization operators
Relevant museum operators, zoos and aquariums who meet specific criteria
Motion picture theater operators
Talent representatives
Each business entity owned by an eligible entity that also meets the eligibility requirements
The ARP, which passed with Himes support, is a historic $1.9 trillion bill to defeat the coronavirus and mitigate the economic harm caused to the American people. The ARP provides billions to Southwest Connecticut's families, workers, schools, small businesses, local governments, and more. Additionally, ARP will fund the administration of vaccines and the mitigation of COVID-19. Click here for more information.

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