The U.S. Small Business Administration opened the application portal for its Shuttered Venue Operators Grant on April 8, but it began experiencing technical difficulties. Applicants still can register for a new account but cannot complete the application process at this time.

The SBA will provide notice of the time and date the portal will reopen so applicants can be prepared. To register a new account, click here.

Here are steps businesses can take to prepared for the reopening of the program portal:

• To review frequently asked questions, application checklists, and additional information, click here.
• To view a sample of the online application, click here.
• The Ohio Small Business Development Centers (SBDC) are prepared to help businesses through the process. SBDCs are located throughout the state. To find one in your city or region, click here.

Applicants also will be required to register in the federal government’s System for Award Management (SAM.gov). Ohio SBDC advisors can help businesses with the registration process. The Ohio University Procurement Technical Assistance Center recently hosted a webinar about registering for SAM.gov. To view a recording of the webinar, click here.