Congresswoman Cori Bush Announces Opening of Shuttered Venue Operators Grant Program to Support Local Jobs

Statement

Today, Congresswoman Cori Bush (MO-01) released a statement on the Small Business Administration's Shuttered Venue Operators Grant (SVOG) program, which will provide more help to local businesses struggling during the COVID-19 pandemic. The program includes a total of more than $16 billion in grants for shuttered venues.

"Local businesses are essential to both the economy and the culture of our St. Louis community, and we know our local venues have been hit hard as their stages and screens have remained dark for more than a year," said Congresswoman Cori Bush. "I'm proud to have helped secure these grants to help our shuttered venue operators cover rent payments and put paychecks back in workers' pockets. This funding will help ensure we do not lose the charm, character, and creativity local venues bring to our communities."

Venues in Missouri's First District can begin applying for assistance today.

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
Applicants must have been in operation as of February 29, 2020. A venue or promoter who received a PPP loan on or after December 27, 2020, will have the SVOG reduced by the PPP loan amount. Clickhere for more information about who can apply.

Venue operates can use their grants for:

Payroll costs
Rent payments
Utility payments
Worker protection expenditures, and more
Click here for a full list of how venue operators can use their grants.

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