Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Microenterprise Funds: Grant Administration Agreement LMI Fountain of Youth Copyrig hted
February 15, 2021
City of Dubuque Action Items # 2.
City Council Meeting
ITEM TITLE: Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Microenterprise Funds:
Grant Administration Agreement for the Low-and Moderate-I ncome
(LMI) Business Assistance Grant Program
SUMMARY: City Manager recommending approval of a GrantAdministration
Agreement with The Fountain of Youth Program to administer a grant
program using Community Development Block Grant(CDBG)
Microenterprise funding for the benefit of existing businesses operated
by low- and moderate-income individuals in the City of Dubuque.
RESOLUTION Approving a GrantAdministration Agreement with The
Fountain of Youth Program to administer the Low-And Moderate-I ncome
Small Business Assistance Grant Program
SUGGESTED Suggested Disposition: Receive and File;Adopt Resolution(s)
DISPOSITION:
ATTACHMENTS:
Description Type
LMI Small Business Grant-MVM Memo City Manager Memo
Staff Memo Staff Memo
Resolution of Approval Resolutions
Grant Administration Agreement Supporting Documentation
Program Documents Supporting Documentation
Dubuque
THE CITY OF �
ui-Aseria cih
DuB E , . � . ,
� II �
Maste iece on tj2e Mississi i zoo�•zoiz•zois
YP pp zoi�*zoi9
TO: The Honorable Mayor and City Council Members
FROM: Michael C. Van Milligen, City Manager
SUBJECT: CDBG Microenterprise Funds: Grant Administration Agreement for the
Low- and Moderate-Income (LMI) Business Assistance Grant Program
DATE: February 10, 2021
Economic Development Director Jill Connors recommends City Council approval of a
Grant Administration Agreement with The Fountain of Youth Program to administer a
grant program using Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Microenterprise
funding for the benefit of existing businesses operated by low- and moderate-income
individuals in the City of Dubuque.
At its September 2019 meeting, the Community Development Advisory Commission
approved a proposal to pilot a $1,500 Business Assistance Stipend for income-eligible
individuals who are working toward starting a business. The stipend is used to pay for
eligible expenses for the individual, based on each individual's particular needs in
developing a business. Expenses may include permitting fees, attorney costs for the
creation of organizational documents, childcare or transportation costs related to
attending appointments for the purpose of starting the business, enrollment costs for
business development classes, technical assistance, and other similar expenses.
At its December 2019 meeting, the Commission approved an amendment to the level of
stipend from $1,500 to $3,500 for an eligible individual in order to better assist the
companies.
For the recipients of this stipend, the City partners with The Fountain of Youth Program,
which is providing personal development programming, as well as holding the individual
accountable for progress and providing administration of the files. These "wrap around"
services are designed to help the individual advance toward getting a business fully
operational.
Because the objective of these funds is to provide an economic development benefit to
LMI individuals, Jill connors is proposing to support currently existing small businesses
that are operated by LMI individuals with the remaining $34,370 in funds. Funds would
be provided in the form of a grant, to be paid in two installments, in exchange for the
individual's participation in both personal and professional development activities. This
serves two purposes: 1) it will provide short-term assistance to keep the business afloat
while the economy inches back toward a recovery; and 2) it will position the business
owner to improve the business over the long term due to the personal and professional
development activities required to remain eligible for the funds.
I concur with the recommendation and respectfully request Mayor and City Council
approval.
�
Mic ael C. Van Milligen
MCVM:jh
Attachment
cc: Crenna Brumwell, City Attorney
Cori Burbach, Assistant City Manager
Jill M. Connors, Economic Development Director
2
Dubuque Economic Development
Department
THE CITY OF � 50 West 13th Street
All•AmericaCiiy Dubuque, lowa 52001-4864
U� � NA°NA"�`}'"�� Office(563)589-4393
� �
TTY(563)690-6678
� http://www.cityofdubuque.org
2007*2012*2013
Masterpiece on the Mississippi 2oi�*Zoi9
TO: Community Development Advisory Commission
FROM: Jill M. Connors, Economic Development Director
SUBJECT: CDBG Microenterprise Funds: Grant Administration Agreement for the
Low- and Moderate-Income (LMI) Business Assistance Grant Program
DATE: February 8, 2021
INTRODUCTION
This memorandum presents for City Council review and approval a resolution approving
a Grant Administration Agreement with The Fountain of Youth Program to administer a
grant program using CDBG Microenterprise funding for the benefit of existing
businesses operated by low- and moderate-income individuals in the city of Dubuque.
BACKGROUND
On December 20, 2017, the Community Development Advisory Commission (the
"Commission") approved the allocation of $150,000 to the Economic Development
Department to provide microloans to entrepreneurs and budding businesses. The focus
of the program was the Central Avenue Corridor and the city's minority population.
Three microloans of $35,000 each were provided to income-eligible entrepreneurs to
start up their businesses. This left a balance of $45,000 in the allocated fund.
At its September 2019 meeting, the Commission approved a proposal to pilot a $1,500
Business Assistance Stipend for income-eligible individuals who are working toward
starting a business. The stipend is used to pay for eligible expenses for the individual,
based on each individual's particular needs in developing a business. Expenses may
include permitting fees, attorney costs for the creation of organizational documents,
childcare or transportation costs related to attending appointments for the purpose of
starting the business, enrollment costs for business development classes, technical
assistance, and other similar expenses. Documentation of expenses will be kept on file
for auditing purposes.
At its December 2019 meeting, the Commission approved an amendment to the level of
stipend from $1,500 to $3,500 for an eligible individual in order to better assist the
companies.
DISCUSSION
For the recipients of this stipend, the City will partner with The Fountain of Youth
Program, which is providing personal development programming, as well as holding the
individual accountable for progress and providing administration of the files. These
"wrap around" services are designed to help the individual advance toward getting a
business fully operational.
The COVID-19 pandemic caused this program to completely stall because the training
available was put on hold. This has led to consideration of how to best use these funds
to support small business for low- and moderate-income individuals. There is a current
balance of funds of $34,370, which would be enough to provide 10 stipends. However,
the creation of 10 business startups between now and June 30, 2021 seems unlikely.
Only 3 individuals took advantage of the program in 2019 and none in 2020.
Because the objective of these funds is to provide an economic development benefit to
LMI individuals, I am proposing to support currently existing small businesses that are
operated by LMI individuals. (Program documents are attached to this memo.) Funds
would be provided in the form of a grant, to be paid in two installments, in exchange for
the individual's participation in both personal and professional development activities.
This serves two purposes: 1) it will provide short-term assistance to keep the business
afloat while the economy inches back toward a recovery; and 2) it will position the
business owner to improve the business over the long term due to the personal and
professional development activities required to remain eligible for the funds. (Studies
show that small business owners who receive three or more hours of inentoring report
higher revenues and increased growth.)
Covered expenses are only those allowed under CDBG regulations. All covered
expenses and grant disbursements will be kept on file for auditing purposes, as well as
documentation of the required personal and professional development activities.
All proposed documentation for the program is attached to this memo, and details for
applying will be posted at https://www.cityofdubuque.orq/101/Economic-Development
beginning Tuesday, February 16, 2021.
RECOMMENDATION/ ACTION STEP
I respectfully request City Council approval of the attached resolution approving the
Grant Administration Agreement with The Fountain of Youth Program for the
administration of the LMI Business Assistance Grant Program funded by previously-
allocated federal Community Development Block Grant microenterprise funds.
Prepared by: Jill Connors, Economic Development, 50 W. 13t' Street, Dubuque IA 52001, 563 589-4393
Return to: Jill Connors, Economic Development, 50 W. 1 V Street, Dubuque IA 520017 563 589-4393
RESOLUTION NO. 50-21
APPROVING A GRANT ADMINISTRATION AGREEMENT WITH THE FOUNTAIN OF
YOUTH PROGRAM TO ADMINISTER THE LOW- AND MODERATE -INCOME SMALL
BUSINESS ASSISTANCE GRANT PROGRAM
WHEREAS, Community Development Block Grant funds (the Funds) have been
allocated for the purpose of supporting microenterprises within the city of Dubuque which
are owned by low- to moderate -income individuals; and
WHEREAS, the Community Development Advisory Commission (the
Commission) has purview over the use of the Funds; and
WHEREAS, the Commission has reviewed and approved the use of the Funds in
the City of Dubuque Small Business Assistance Grant Program (the Grant); and
WHEREAS, The Fountain of Youth Program has the infrastructure necessary to
administer the Grant; and
WHEREAS, the City Council finds that it is in the interests of the City of Dubuque
to approve the Grant Administration Agreement with The Fountain of Youth Program to
administer the Grant.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
DUBUQUE, IOWA:
Section 1. That the Grant Administration Agreement between the City of
Dubuque, Iowa, and The Fountain of Youth Program, a copy of which is attached hereto,
is hereby approved.
Section 2. That the Mayor is hereby authorized and directed to execute the
Grant Administration Agreement on behalf of the City of Dubuque and the City Clerk is
authorized and directed to attest to his signature.
Section 3. That the City Manager is authorized to take such actions as are
necessary to comply with the terms of the Grant Administration Agreement.
Passed, approved and adopted this 15t" day of February, 2021.
Roy D./Vuol, Mayor
Attest:
Adrienne N. Breitfelder, City Clerk
GRANT ADMINISTRATION AGREEMENT
BETWEEN
THE CITY OF DUBUQUE, IOWA
AND
THE FOUNTAIN OF YOUTH PROGRAM
THIS AGREEMENT, dated for reference purposes the 15t" day of February, 2021,
by and between the City of Dubuque, Iowa (City) and The Fountain of Youth Program, an
Iowa non-profit corporation (Agency).
Whereas, the City Council of the City of Dubuque has previously identified as a
goal "Robust Local Economy: Diverse Businesses and Jobs with Economic Prosperity";
and
Whereas, on January 20th, 2021, the City of Dubuque Community Development
Advisory Commission approved a program, known as the LMI-Owned Business
Assistance Grant Program (the Program), using Community Development Block Grant
microenterprise funds for business grant support to small businesses operated by low -
and moderate -income individuals; and
Whereas, City staff have determined it is necessary to partner with an organization
for the administration of the Program; and
Whereas, Agency serves low-income individuals with their personal development
and financial goals; and
Whereas, City staff have identified Agency as an appropriate organization to
facilitate the administration of the Program.
C91►JA I M 1 :4:
SECTION 1. SCOPE OF SERVICE.
1.1 Agency shall make its personal development services available as described in
Attachment A to City of Dubuque residents interested in the Program (the Candidates).
1.2 Upon approval of Candidates to participate in the Program, City shall disburse
CDBG microenterprise funds (the Funds) to Agency upon receipt of an invoice in an
amount not to exceed three thousand five hundred dollars ($3,500) per Candidate to
cover eligible expenses as provided in Section 1.5.
1.3 Agency shall work with Candidates for not less than two (2) months (Eight 45-
minute sessions), providing 1-on-1 support, mentoring, and advocacy to help Candidates
learn new personal development skills and tailor goals to align with the successful
operation of a business.
020921bal
1.4 Agency shall ensure Candidate compliance with additional Qualifying
Requirements as described in Attachment B.
1.5 Agency shall disburse the Funds to Candidates on a prescribed schedule at City's
sole discretion for eligible expenses of a Candidate's business as described in
Attachment C.
1.6 Agency shall keep records of all Candidate applications, Qualifying Requirements,
and eligible expenses paid from with the Funds.
1.7 Agency shall provide all records of receipt of and payment of the Fund and deliver
such records to City once the Funds have been fully expended, and/or upon written
request from City.
1.8 Agency shall return to City the unused balance of the Funds by each Candidate
on or before June 30, 2021.
SECTION 2. CITY RESPONSIBILITIES. City designates the Economic Development
Director to act as its representative with respect to the services to be perFormed under
this Agreement, and such person shall have authority to transmit instructions, receive
information, interpret and define City's policies and provide decisions in a timely manner
pertinent to the services covered by this Agreement until Agency has been advised in
writing by City that such authority has been revoked.
SECTION 3. TIME OF PERFORMANCE. This Agreement shall take effect upon
execution by both parties (the Effective Date). The Term of this Agreement shall be from
the Effective Date through June 30, 2021.
SECTION 4. AUDIT AND EVALUATION. Inasmuch as the funds to be provided to
Agency by City are public funds, Agency agrees that it will maintain books of account in
accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Standards together with necessary
documentation to support all expenditures. The records of Agency, including payroll
accounts and other records of disbursements and receipts, and other records relating to
the performance of the activities herein specified, shall be made available for inspection
by City or any Certified Public Accountant acting on its behalf, in order to ascertain
performance of Agency under this Agreement. Agency agrees to retain such records for
not less than three (3) years.
SECTION 5. REPORTING AND MONITORING.
5.1 Agency shall render to the Economic Development Director a quarterly report
detailing its activities related to the use of the Funds. Such report shall include a
perFormance report on the program(s) supported by the Funds and a financial report on
the use of the Funds, which shall be rendered no later than the fifteenth (15th) day of the
4th, 7th, 10th, and 13th month from the Effective Date of Agreement. A written annual
equity report shall be submitted within sixty (60) days of the end of the Term. The
2
perFormance report shall include services relevant to the objective, output, and outcome
that furthers identified City Council goals.
5.2 If Agency has an annual audit performed, Agency shall provide City with a copy of
the annual audit report within ninety (90) days of the end of Agency's fiscal year.
SECTION 6. DISCRIMINATION.
6.1 In carrying the services under this Agreement, Agency shall not discriminate
against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, creed, color, sex,
age, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, or disability. Agency shall
take affirmative action to ensure that applicants for employment are employed and that
employees are treated during employment without regard to race, creed, color, sex, age,
national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, or disability. Such action shall
include, but not be limited to, the following: employment, upgrading, demotion or transfer;
recruitment or recruitment advertising; layoff or termination; rates of pay or other forms of
compensation; and selection for training, including apprenticeship. Agency assures that
all qualified applicants will receive consideration for the Program without regard to race,
creed, color, sex, age, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, or
disability.
6.2 Agency agrees and will undertake whatever affirmative measures are necessary
so that no person shall be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be
subjected to discrimination under any program or activities funded in whole or in part with
any of the funds made available to Agency under the terms of this Agreement because
of race, color, creed, religion, sex, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity
or disability.
SECTION 7. TERMINATION OF AGREEMENT.
7.1 If, through any cause, Agency shall fail to fulfill in a timely and proper manner its
obligations under this Agreement, or if the Agency shall violate any of the covenants,
agreements or stipulations of this Agreement, City shall thereupon have the right to
terminate this Agreement by giving written notice to Agency of such termination and
specifying the effective date thereof which shall be not less than thirty (30) days before
the effective date of such termination. If Agency shall fail to cure its default to the
satisfaction of City in City's sole discretion within such thirty-day period, this Agreement
shall be deemed terminated at the end of such thirty-day period without further action of
either party.
7.2 Upon termination of this Agreement, Agency shall return to City all unexpended
Funds and/or any Funds utilized for purposes other than stated in this Agreement.
SECTION 8. ASSIGNABILITY. Agency shall not assign any interest in this Agreement
without the prior written approval of City in City's sole discretion.
3
SECTION 9. INSURANCE. At the time of execution of this Agreement by Agency,
Agency shall provide the City copies of Agency's insurance certificates showing general
liability, automobile liability, and workers compensation insurance coverage to the
satisfaction of City for the Term of this Agreement.
CITY OF DUBUQUE, IOWA
By:
Roy
Attest:
Adrienne N. Breitfelder, City Clerk
THE FOUNTAIN OF YOUTH
PROGRAM
By: C �'~
Caprice W , Executive Director
!3
ATTACHMENT A
5
Csreer arad Professianal Qevelapme�t; ��trepreneur T�ack
Week 1&2- Peesarui Qex+elopmerot LYeek 1�2= Custamer Serviee
■ Cammunic3tion_verbal nan-verbal written.��is�a; ■ Communa�tion skilla�ontir�ues
■ InheFpersorwl skdas + Pa:ienr.e
+ orqanizationa'ski!Is + Aaive fistenmg
+ Prohl�msoh,zng ■ Conqi�tre9alu�ion
. 5elfaar�iden¢e ■ []e€isinn Maki�g
+ hdapahilityr ■ G�pendability
■ Inxgrity ■ R3owledgeo`prcd�rtandserri�es
■ wort.ethic ■ open r�indedness
+ Lt�3tl�f5hl� ■ R25p�f151'!�E^�55
+ lirneliness
Week 3= Bud�¢tir�
Week 4= M�rketin��4 P`s�
+ C�IrulaSng inaama . p^aduct
. €�Irula�ngexpenses ■ Pric�
+ Setgaals
+ Promo`.ion
. Chaase a b�dget s�ategy�enve!ope syrste�; a P�a€e
+ fid;�st yrour habits � Iden="rfy pr�du€�and�ervrc�
■ �u�or.�ated banking IQ�izkBocksi � Iden:'rfy yaur�:,saa��rs
. Tradc your prcgress � Psk questions
+ [�velopirg sample budge: � pefine yrour marke��g rFix
� Tes.your work
� Review regularly
Yfeek 5= Networko�g
■ onlineg;vups
Week 6= H�n�n Reso�aes
+ Pro�essionalassxiatians
+ �asual€an�c� ■ Recruitrnen=
+ �ammunity service€lubs ■ onbogrdi�g
� ehaa�e wha:worxs bes=for��cu ■ Ermpbyee 6ar.efits
� Make genuirx�anr+E�o-ns ■ p,rc asan in-ermediar�
� Haw�n you conxribute ta the�latiars!-:ip? ■ Training and de'delap�errt
� S;aycortsa:eM . Legal€ompl'ranc�
� Gan�inue�huHd��+aur netvrork
Werek 7: Gval Settir�g 1Meek S: re�f[�re&Persam�a Grovrth
+ 5horttertn va long=erm • warkJfife halanre
+ Persanal gaals: ad�nangyo�r irmeres� + b��s your persorsl needs
+ Pro;essianal goals + Rzhievti a bala r,re that warks�ar�pau
■ sMART gaaLs used • Find s�ri�hing}+au lo�de
� Make gcal as cleae�de�iled as passih�e � �antrol anger
� hlaw wili yau measure suaeess? � ouer€ome urger ta pracrastina^e
� r3FF1�xo�€MIQ4'ablp? � Taketimemtetheeeforycu
� Is��eleva rrt? � ereak hahit o'iazir�,=
� 5eta beginr.ing&enai�g date � Leam m be r.ansiderate
� Leam to be responsible
� oevdop skills and al��rays leam
� pos'rtiwe a�tibi�
6
ATTACHMENT B
7
Dubuque Economic Development
Department
THE CITY OF � so west 13�h street
All•AmerieaCity Dubuque,lowa 52001-4864
D V L L Office(563)589-4213
��� � �� TTY(563)690-6678
http://www.cityofd u buq ue.org
2007�2012�2013
Masterpiece on the Mississippi 2oi�*2oi9
LMI -OWNED BUSINESS ASSISTANCE GRANT
QUALIFYING REQUIREMENT DOCUMENTATION
Purpose
The City of Dubuque is a recipient of federal Community Development Block Grant
(CDBG) funds from the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), which
must be used to support a national objective, one of which is to provide economic
development benefit to low and moderate income(LMI)individuals and areas.
A business may qualify for a grant up to $3,OOQ if all aualifvina reauirements are met.
There is no quarantee that a business will be funded. The intent of the program is to serve
as many businesses as possible.
The purpose of this grant is to help businesses succeed over the long term. Part of
succeeding is notjust covering current expenses with a grant, but also to develop ideas
for continued success. The qualifying requirements are meantto provide ongoing support
to the business owner in in the owner's efforts to improve the owner's business practices
and income.
Qualifying Requirements
• The business owner must engage in eight (8) 60-minute meetings with staff from
Fountain of Youth to set individual and/or professional goals.
• The business owner must engage in two(2) meetings with a business mentor(i.e.,
SCORE, SBDC) to review current business practices and gain additional skills to
improve the owner's business. The business owner must sign a waiver permitting
the business mentor to confirm meetings were held.
• The business owner must provide an update on the business, such as persons
served by the business and general information on outcomes identified during
mentoring sessions, after 3 months of the first reimbursement request.
1
$
The grant will provide up to a total of$3,000, in two installments, in exchange for proof of
eligible expenses and meeting the qualifying requirements. Grant funds may also be
used to pay for the technical assistance services provided by The Fountain of Youth
Program, as invoiced at each installment interval.
The installment payments will be made upon proof of eligible expenses and the following:
1. After 4 meetings with Fountain of Youth staff and 1 meeting with a business
mentor; and
2. After an additional 4 meetings with Fountain of Youth staff and 1 additional meeting
with a business mentor.
2
9
GRANT QUALIFYING REQUIREMENT DOCUMENTATION
Name:
Business Name:
Date TopiclGoal Discussed Owner FOY
Initial Initial
Date Business Mentor — Owner Mentor
Goal Discussed Initial Name
3
10
ATTACHMENT C
11
Dubuque Economic Development
Department
THE CITY OF � 50 West 13th Street
All-Ameriea City Dubuque,iowa 52001-4564
D�L L w+��r�,��rr � Office(563)589-4213
1 I I I�I�' TTY(563)690-6678
http://www.cityofdu buq ue.org
2007*2012�2013
Masterpiece on the Mississippi 2017+2019
ATTACHMENT C
EXAMPLES OF ELIGIBLE AND INELGIBLE EXPENSES
Federal regulations demand that this funding be used o�for eligible expenses per those
regulations. If you are unsure if an expense will be eligible for the Grant, you must first
contact Jill Connors for verification. You may email lilconno(c�citvofdubuque.orq or call
563-564-5686. Failure to confirm whether an expense is eligible may result in non-
coverage of that expense by the Grant.
Proof of these expenses is required to be covered by the grant, such as an invoice, bill,
or receipt that clearly shows the itemiservice purchased.
Some examples of eligible and non-eligible expenses.
Eliqible
. Rent/utilities
. Salaries
. Supplies(think: paper clips, scissors, hangers, plates,etc.}
• Marketing/ads
. Permanent equipment
. Permanent signage
. QuickBooks
. Trainingltechnical assistance
NOT Eliqible
• Temporary signs
• Furniture
. Inventory(quantities of the product you sell)
. Laptop/technology/point of sale equipment
1
12
Dubuque Economic Development
THE CITY OF � �epartment
50 West 13th Street
All•AmericaCity Dubuque,lowa 52001-4864
U� � Nnnaun�wicu=nc:ui_
1 I I I Office(563)589-4213
TTY(563)690-6678
� http://www.cityofdubuque.org
2007*2012*2013
Masterpiece on the Mississippi 2oi�*Zoi9
LMI-OWNED BUSINESS ASSISTANCE GRANT APPLICATION
Please complete fullv and accuratelv and submit application (includinq all back-up information)
to the followinq. APPLICATIONS WITHOUT ALL ATTACHMENTS WILL NOT BE
CONSIDERED.
Economic Development Department, Attn: Jill Connors
50 W. 13th Street
Dubuque, IA 52001
** NOTE —ALL REQUESTED INFORMATION REQUIRED FOR THIS FUNDING
IS FOR APPLICANT ONLY. **
If you have any questions regarding this application, please contact Jill Connors at 563-564-5686.
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
NAME
BUSINESS NAME
DATE
ADDRESS
CITY STATE
ZIP
Information Needed with Submittal of Application (see checklist)
1. Last year's Federal Income Tax return (as submitted to IRS) — both personal and
business — including
2. copies of W-2's
3. Entity Documentation evidence (i.e., Articles of Incorporation, Bylaws, Operating
Agreement, etc.) and proof of active status
4. Copy of Driver's License
I authorize the City of Dubuque to contact my source of income, including employer, in
order to verify amounts for purpose of qualification for the Financial Assistance
Program. Initial Here:
Office Use Only: Received by City on Date Approved
Revised 02-08-2021 Date Denied
INCOME GUIDELINES FOR GRANT ELIGIBILITY
Guidelines for financial assistance are based on individual gross income. Please circle
the income level that applies to you.
Below 30%AMI Below 50%AMI Below 60%AMI Below 80%AMI
< $17,400 < $29,050 < $34,860 < $46,450
Age of applicant: Under 18 Between 18 & 65 Over 65
Gender: female male other
What is your race/ethnic origin? (please check only one
❑ White ❑ American Indian/Alaskan Native &White
❑ Black/African American ❑ Black/African American & White
n Asian C Asian & White
C American Indian/Alaskan native C American Indian/Alaskan Native & Black/African
American
� Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander � Other Multi-Racial
Is the participant a female head of household?
� Yes ❑ No
1 certify that the information given to the City of Dubuque, is to the best of my knowledge
and belief, true, correct, and complete as stated herein. 1 am aware that the information
being provided is subject to verification by the local or Federal government. 1 also
understand that false statements of information are grounds for denial of assistance.
Print Name
Signature Date
Street Address City, State, Zip Code Telephone Number
Email Address
**Warning: Whoever knowingly and willingly makes or uses a document or writing
containing any false, fictitious, or fraudulent statement or entry may be subject to federal
prosecution.
Revised 02-08-2021
Dubuque Economic Development
THE CITY OF � �epartment
50 West 13th Street
All-America City Dubuque,lowa 52001-4864
UB E ��x�.«��z��.�,��
1 I � � Office(563)589-4213
TTY(563)690-6678
� http://www.cityofdubuque.org
2007*2012*2013
Masterpiece on the Mississippi zai�*Zoi9
LMI-OWNED BUSINESS ASSISTANCE GRANT
FILE CHECKLIST
Name:
Business Name:
Date:
Application
❑ Application
❑ Business Tax Return and Financials
❑ Personal Tax Return
❑ W-2s
❑ Entity Documentation evidence (i.e., Articles of Incorporation, Bylaws, Operating
Agreement, etc.)
❑ Copy of Driver's License
❑ Corporate search — Proof of Active Status
Dubuque Economic Development
THE CITY OF � �epartment
50 West 13th Street
All-America City Dubuque,lowa 52001-4864
UB E ��x�.«��z��.�,��
1 I � � Office(563)589-4213
TTY(563)690-6678
� http://www.cityofdubuque.org
2007*2012*2013
Masterpiece on the Mississippi zai�*Zoi9
LMI-OWNED BUSINESS ASSISTANCE GRANT GUIDELINES
JANUARY 2021 - JUNE 2021
Purpose
The City of Dubuque is a recipient of federal Community Development Block Grant
(CDBG) funds from the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), which
must be used to support a national objective, one of which is to provide economic
development benefit to low- and moderate-income (LMI) individuals and areas.
The business may qualify for a grant up to $3,000 if all qualifying requirements are met.
There is no guarantee that a business will be funded. The intent of the program is to serve
as many businesses as possible
Eligibility
• The business must be located within the city limits of the City of Dubuque.
• The business must have fewer than five (5) employees.
• The business must have been operational for (six) 6 months before application.
• The business must be owned by a LMI individual.
Ineligible
• The business owner lives outside the city limits of the City of Dubuque.
• The business location is outside the city limits of the City of Dubuque.
Qualifying Requirements
• The business owner must engage in weekly 60-minute meetings with staff from
Fountain of Youth to set individual and/or professional goals.
• The business owner must engage in monthly meetings with a business mentor
(i.e., SCORE, SBDC).
Use of Funds
Funds may only be used for documented expenses listed on Attachment A.
1
Application Process
Applications are to be submitted to:
Economic Development, Attn: Jill Connors
50 W. 13t" Street
Dubuque, IA 52001
OR online at:
https://www.cityofdubuque.orq/101/Economic-Development
The following documentation is needed to process an application:
• Application — signed/dated
• Business and personal tax returns with copy of W-2s
• Entity documentation (registered Articles of Incorporation, Bylaws, Operating
Agreement, etc.)
• Driver's license or other form of identification
Note: Additional items may be requested for approval. Partially submitted data will
not be considered or may delay consideration.
Timeline/Availability
Applications will be evaluated, and decisions issued in the order completed applications
are received through April 30, 2021 or until funds are depleted, whichever occurs first.
No grant funds will be awarded after June 30, 2021.
**Please address all questions to Jill Connors, Economic Development Director for
the City of Dubuque at:
jilconno _cityofdubuque.orq
563-564-5686
2
FAQ
What is the City of Dubuque LMI-Owned Business Assistance Grant? This grant is designed
to assist eligible low- and moderate-income (LMI)-owned businesses to cover qualifying
expenses.
Why is this grant program being offered at this time? The City of Dubuque has available
Community Development Block Grant funds for microenterprise assistance. Due to the COVID-
19 pandemic and the disproportionate negative effect it has had on LMI-owned businesses, the
City is currently prioritizing support to these businesses.
Is this a loan or a grant program? It is a grant program. Funds are available for eligible
expenses for businesses that fulfill the qualifying requirements.
What is the cost to apply? There is no cost to apply. There is no obligation to take the grant if
approved.
What can funds be used for? Due to federal regulations, funds can onlv be used for eligible
expenses. Documentation of those expenses is required. Ineligible expenses will not be covered
by the grant.
What is the funding source for this program and who is administering the program? The
funds are made available from the City of Dubuque from its allocation of Community Development
Block Grant funds. The City is partnering with The Fountain of Youth Program to administer the
grant.
Where must the business be located to be eligible? The business must operate within the
city limits of the City of Dubuque.
Why must I share my financials? Community Development Block Grant funds must be used to
meet a national objective. This program is being offered to meet the objective of providing
economic benefit to low-and moderate-income individuals. Your financials serve as proof of your
income.
How much is the grant? The grant will provide up to a total of $3,000, in two installments, in
exchange for proof of eligible expenses and meeting the qualifying requirements. The installment
payments will be made�30 days and 60 days following the date of the first qualifying requirement.
Why must I provide my driver's license or another photo ID? As funds are only available to
low- to moderate-income individuals, we must ensure that the person applying is the same
individual as that listed on the financials submitted.
3
Why must I participate in meetings with Fountain of Youth staff and a business mentor?
The purpose of this grant is to help businesses succeed over the long term. Part of succeeding
is not just covering current expenses with a grant, but to get ideas for continued success.
4
Dubuque Economic Development
THE CITY DF � �epartment
50 West 13th Street
�II•AlllMqCllr Dubuque, lowa 52001-4864
�� � """'��nx:i:.�... OfflCe(563)589-4213
' I ��� TTY(563)690-6678
http://www.cityofdubuque.org
zoo�•zo�z•Z�13
N�ast�erpiece an �he �ississippi zoi�*�o1s
LMI-OWNED BUSINESS ASSISTANCE GRANT
PARTICIPANT AGREEMENT AND WAIVER
NAME
BUSINESS NAME
DATE
ADDRESS
CITY STATE
ZIP
1. I understand that the LMI Small Business Assistance Grant funds are federal
Community Development Block Grant funds that have certain restrictions on
what costs are eligible for reimbursement under the program.
2. I understand that eligibility of costs will be determined by the City of Dubuque, in
its sole discretion. Any costs not covered by the grant are my responsibility.
3. I understand that participation in this grant program is voluntary.
4. I understand that failure to meet any of the program requirements will make me
ineligible for any reimbursements from the grant program.
5. I agree that City of Dubuque and/or The Fountain of Youth Program staff may
contact my business mentor to verify sessions have been completed, as
required.
Signature Date
Career and Professional Development: Entrepreneur Track
Week 1& 2: Personal Development Week 1 &2: Customer Service
• Communication:verbal, non-verbal,written,visual • Communication skills continues
• Interpersonal skills • Patience
• Organizational skills • Active listening
• Problem solving • Conflict resolution
• Self confidence • Decision Making
• Adaptability • Dependability
• Integrity • Knowledge of product and services
• Work ethic • Open mindedness
• Leadership • Responsiveness
• Timeliness
Week 3: Budgeting
Week 4: Marketing(4 P's)
• Calculating income • Product
• Calculating expenses . Price
• Set goals • Promotion
• Choose a budget strategy(envelope system) • Place
• Adjust your habits � Identify products and services
• Automated banking(QuickBooks) � Identify your customers
• Track your progress � Ask questions
• Developing sample budget � Define your marketing mix
� Test your work
� Review regularly
Week 5: Networking
• Online groups Week 6: Human Resources
• Professional associations
• Casual contacts • Recruitment
• Community service clubs • Onboarding
� Choose what works best for you • Employee benefits
� Make genuine connections . Act as an intermediary
� How can you contribute to the relationship? • Training and development
� Stay consistent • Legal compliance
� Continue to build your network
Week 7: Goal Setting Week 8: Self Care& Personal Growth
• Short term vs long term • Work/life balance
• Personal goals: advancing your interest • Assess your personal needs
• Professional goals • Achieve a balance that works for you
• SMART goals used • Find something you love
� Make goal as clear&detailed as possible � Control anger
� How will you measure success? � Overcome urger to procrastinate
� Are they achievable? � Take time to be there for you
� Is it relevant? � Break habit of laziness
� Set a beginning&ending date � Learn to be considerate
� Learn to be responsible
� Develop skills and always learn
� Positive attitude
Dubuque Economic Development
THE CITY OF � �epartment
50 West 13th Street
All-America City Dubuque,lowa 52001-4864
UB E ��x�.«��z��.�,��
1 I � � Office(563)589-4213
TTY(563)690-6678
� http://www.cityofdubuque.org
2007*2012*2013
Masterpiece on the Mississippi zai�*Zoi9
LMI - OWNED BUSINESS ASSISTANCE GRANT
QUALIFYING REQUIREMENT DOCUMENTATION
Purpose
The City of Dubuque is a recipient of federal Community Development Block Grant
(CDBG) funds from the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), which
must be used to support a national objective, one of which is to provide economic
development benefit to low and moderate income (LMI) individuals and areas.
A business may qualify for a grant up to $3,000 if all aualifyinq requirements are met.
There is no quarantee that a business will be funded. The intent of the program is to serve
as many businesses as possible.
The purpose of this grant is to help businesses succeed over the long term. Part of
succeeding is not just covering current expenses with a grant, but also to develop ideas
for continued success. The qualifying requirements are meant to provide ongoing support
to the business owner in in the owner's efforts to improve the owner's business practices
and income.
Qualifying Requirements
• The business owner must engage in eight (8) 60-minute meetings with staff from
Fountain of Youth to set individual and/or professional goals.
• The business owner must engage in two (2) meetings with a business mentor(i.e.,
SCORE, SBDC) to review current business practices and gain additional skills to
improve the owner's business. The business owner must sign a waiver permitting
the business mentor to confirm meetings were held.
• The business owner must provide an update on the business, such as persons
served by the business and general information on outcomes identified during
mentoring sessions, after 3 months of the first reimbursement request.
1
The grant will provide up to a total of$3,000, in two installments, in exchange for proof of
eligible expenses and meeting the qualifying requirements. Grant funds may also be
used to pay for the technical assistance services provided by The Fountain of Youth
Program, as invoiced at each installment interval.
The installment payments will be made upon proof of eligible expenses and the following:
1. After 4 meetings with Fountain of Youth staff and 1 meeting with a business
mentor; and
2. After an additional 4 meetings with Fountain of Youth staff and 1 additional meeting
with a business mentor.
2
GRANT QUALIFYING REQUIREMENT DOCUMENTATION
Name:
Business Name:
Date Topic/Goal Discussed Owner FOY
Initial Initial
Date Business Mentor - Owner Mentor
Goal Discussed Initial Name
3
Dubuque Economic Development
THE CITY OF � �epartment
50 West 13th Street
All-America City Dubuque,lowa 52001-4864
UB E ��x�.«��z��.�,��
1 I � � Office(563)589-4213
TTY(563)690-6678
� http://www.cityofdubuque.org
2007*2012*2013
Masterpiece on the Mississippi zai�*Zoi9
ATTACHMENT C
EXAMPLES OF ELIGIBLE AND INELGIBLE EXPENSES
Federal regulations demand that this funding be used onlv for eligible expenses per those
regulations. If you are unsure if an expense will be eligible for the Grant, you must first
contact Jill Connors for verification. You may email iilconno(c�cityofdubuque.orq or call
563-564-5686. Failure to confirm whether an expense is eligible may result in non-
coverage of that expense by the Grant.
Proof of these expenses is required to be covered by the grant, such as an invoice, bill,
or receipt that clearly shows the item/service purchased.
Some examples of eligible and non-eligible expenses.
Eli ible
• Rent/utilities
• Salaries
• Supplies (think: paper clips, scissors, hangers, plates, etc.)
• Marketing / ads
• Permanent equipment
• Permanent signage
• QuickBooks
• Training/technical assistance
NOT Eliqible
• Temporary signs
• Furniture
• Inventory (quantities of the product you sell)
• Laptop/technology/point of sale equipment
1
Dubuque Economic Development
THE CITY OF � �epartment
50 West 13th Street
All-America City Dubuque,lowa 52001-4864
UB E ��x�.«��z��.�,��
1 I � � Office(563)589-4213
TTY(563)690-6678
� http://www.cityofdubuque.org
2007*2012*2013
Masterpiece on the Mississippi zai�*Zoi9
LMI-OWNED BUSINESS ASSISTANCE GRANT
EXPENSE TRACKING
Name:
Business Name:
Date:
Expense Vendor Evidence Amount
1 certify fhat the above documentation is accurate fo fhe besf of my knowledge.
Print Name, Title
Signature