Rock Solid Fund Grant Application - 2021

Applications are available as of March 1.   

The deadline for applications is March 29 at 5:00 p.m.

The Rock Solid Fund provides grants to Nantucket-based small businesses to ensure their continued contribution toward a strong island economy.  Ideally, applicants will use funds to execute an innovative response to the challenges of operating safely during the Covid-19 pandemic, ensuring the economic stability of their own business, while create a positive role model for others in the entrepreneurial community.  The Rock Solid Fund is generously sponsored by the Town of Nantucket, ReMain Ventures, and our 2021 Daffodil Parade sponsors.

There are two programs available under the Rock Solid Fund:

Chamber Member Program - These grants are available to Chamber members in good standing, to fund an innovative approach to stabilizing or growing their business as they recover from the Covid-19 pandemic.

General Program - These grants are available to any small business that can show a need for financial support to enable the changes necessary for their business to operate safely in the 2021 season.

Eligibility Criteria and Application Process

To apply for a grant, the business must complete the Rock Solid Grant application and provide all supporting documentation as required.  All information submitted will remain confidential. Once the application is received, it will be scored by an independent Review Committee using a formal scoresheet.  Applicants will be notified and funds dispersed by the end of April.

A business must meet the following eligibility criteria to be considered for a grant under either program:

1. The business is a for-profit entity with headquarters or primary operations on Nantucket.
2. The business has been etablished and operating at least two years on Nantucket.
3. The business has generated positive cash flow prior to the impact of Covid-19.
4. The business can demonstrate a financial need for the grant.
5. The business submits a feasible plan, including timeline and budget, for the use of the grant in 2021.

Use of Grant Proceeds

1. Purchase or licensing of technology, and consulting services, to implement contactless ordering, payment processing, delivery, or onsite customer service.
2. Planning and implementation of ways to safely manage customer access and traffic flow to and around offices, storefronts, restaurants, gyms, spas, and hotel public spaces.
3. Services and equipment/technology to transition meetings, events and tours from in person to offsite or virtual attendance/participation.
4. Unique ways to market products or services when normal channels are limited.
5. Research/planning for new products/services to generate more revenue when existing offerings are less attractive to customers.
6. Technology/services/equipment to enable customers to purchase and consume products off premise.

The following are examples of expenses that may not be funded through this grant program:

1. Reduction of existing debt.
2. Expenses incurred for changes to operations in 2020.
3. Capital expenses for general improvements or expansion.
4. Standard operating expenses such as rent, utilities, payroll and supplies.
5. Any expense which is covered by another grant or relief program the applicant has received (PPP, SBA, state grant etc).

Please address all questions to Grant@NantucketChamber.org

There will be two Zoom information sessions THIS week:

If you are interested in learning more, attend one of our information sessions this week. We will review the application process, criteria, and share ideas about how the funds can be utilized. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.