The ARPA funded Small Business Assistance Program began in 2021 to provide funding to small businesses that have experienced significant negative economic impacts due to the COVID-19 pandemic.  Since 2021 that City of Springfield has awarded over $8 million dollars to small businesses throughout the city. 

The City of Springfield has recieved approximately 300 small business assistance applications since the opening of the program. This program stopped accepting NEW applications on December 31, 2022.  City staff is continuing to review and process applications submitted prior to the deadline. Questions regarding the program or to obtain an update on a submitted application should be directed to the Office of Planning & Economic Development at (413)787-6020 or wdarbin@springfieldcityhall.com

Applicants for ARPA funding have the right to request reconsideration of decisions made on their application. The deadline for appeal submissions is December 31, 2023.  All appeal requests must be submitted no later than December 31, 2023.  Appeal requests submitted after December 31, 2023 will not be accepted.  To appeal, send a written notice stating the reason for appeal within 30 days of receiving the City’s decision. The written notice should be sent to the ARPA Small Business Program at 1600 E. Columbus Avenue, Springfield MA  01103 or submitted via email to arpaappeals@springfieldcityhall.com. The appeal will be reviewed by the Chief Development Officer, the Director of Technical Assistance and Compliance and the Director of Administration and Finance for the Development Services Division, who will provide a response to the applicant in writing.