City of Springfield Announces $250,000 in Fourth Round of Prime the Pump Grant Program

Mayor Domenic J. Sarno and Chief Development Officer Tim Sheehan today announced the release of $250,000 for a Fourth Round of the Prime the Pump Grant Program, to assist Springfield non-profit organizations, which have been economically impacted by the Covid-19 Coronavirus pandemic.  

The Prime the Pump Program was initially announced on March 18, 2020.  Since that time, the city has advanced over $1,250,000 to assist the city’s small businesses and restaurants in dealing with the economic impacts of the pandemic and the associated public health orders.  The Prime the Pump Program to date has touched small businesses in every neighborhood of the city and has provided assistance to many minority and women owned businesses. Today’s announcement brings Springfield’s grant assistance to local employers to $1,500,000.

Mayor Sarno stated, “My administration is pleased to commit these grant funds because Springfield’s non-profit organizations, many of which have been negatively impacted by the virus, are essential to our collective quality of life, not only because of the valuable programs and services they provide, but also because of the positive economic impact that they have on our city.” 

“The programs and services provided by Springfield’s non-profits help develop and enrich our city and they warrant our support at this time” said CDO Sheehan.

Applications will be competitively scored, based on criteria provided in the application guidelines. Those awarded are required to complete the city contracting process in order to receive funding. 

Funding for this program is provided through the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program, which was authorized by the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security Act (CARES Act).   

Applications for the Fourth Round of Prime the Pump are due July 17, 2020 by 3:00 p.m. and must be submitted electronically to the attention of Lori Santaniello at LSibilia@springfieldcityhall.com.

Interested parties can download the application at the City of Springfield’s Planning and Economic Development website at: www.springfield-ma.gov/planning.