• Rock Solid Fund - Grant Program

  • Rock Solid Fund Grant Application - FY21

  • The Rock Solid Fund provides grants to Nantucket-based small businesses to ensure their continued contribution toward a strong island economy.  Amounts of up to $5,000 will be awarded to for-profit companies that have been in operation at least two years, with a demonstrated history of positive cash flow prior to the pandemic.  Grants are to be used by business owners to fuel innovative solutions to the challenges they face during and recovering from the pandemic.

  • Eligibility Criteria and Application Process

  • Business owners must complete the application, including the submission of financial statements by December 11, 2020 at 5:00 pm, and meet the following eligibility criteria to be considered for a grant:

    1. Established, for-profit company for at least two years.
    2. History of positive cash flow prior to March 2020.
    3. Headquarters and/or primary operations on Nantucket.
    4. Chamber of Commerce member in good standing.
    5. Demonstrated need for the funds.
    6. Clear, realistic, and measurable plan for the use of the funds by June 2021.

  • Use of Grant Proceeds

  • Ideally, applicants will use funds to execute an innovative response to the Covid-19 pandemic or other economic challenges, ensuring the economic stability of their own business, and creating a positive role model for others in the entrepreneurial community.  Funds may not be used for standard operating costs, or to reduce debt. Grants will be awarded by December 30, 2020 and funds are to be used by June 1, 2021. 

    The following are just a few examples of ways the funds can be used by a business:

    1. Purchase/license technology to increase revenue from new channels (e-commerce, mobile app) or to enhance operational efficiency (restaurant take-out ordering, curbside pickup, or hotel remote check-ins).
    2. Equipment to allow the business to operate over a longer season (heat lamps, take out window, curbside pickup design).
    3. Consultants advising the business about how to adjust marketing, product/service offerings or sales and distribution channels.
    4. Succession planning valuation/broker services to find a new operator on island.

  • Please address all questions to Karen Macumber via email at karen@nantucketchamber.org