April 23, 2021

Restaurants affected by the pandemic could be eligible for help from the U.S. Small Business Administration.

For the next two weeks, the SBA will establish a weeklong pilot period for the Restaurant Revitalization Fund application portal and conduct extensive outreach and training, providing a chance to address technical issues ahead of the public launch.

A landing page is available here where restaurants can sign up for e-news alerts and see a sample application.

For the first 21 days that the program is open, the SBA will prioritize reviewing applications from small businesses owned by women, veterans and socially and economically disadvantaged individuals.

Following the 21-day period, all eligible applicants are encouraged to submit applications.

Who can apply

Eligible entities who have experienced pandemic-related revenue loss including:

• Restaurants.
• Food stands, food trucks, food carts.
• Caterers.
• Bars, saloons, lounges, taverns.
• Snack and nonalcoholic beverage bars.
• Bakeries – on-site sales to the public comprise at least 33 percent of gross receipts.
• Brewpubs, tasting rooms, taprooms – on-site sales to the public comprise at least 33 percent of gross receipts.
• Breweries and/or microbreweries – on-site sales to the public comprise at least 33 percent of gross receipts.
• Wineries and distilleries – on-site sales to the public comprise at least 33 percent of gross receipts.
• Inns – on-site sales of food and beverage to the public comprise at least 33 percent of gross receipts.
• Licensed facilities or premises of a beverage alcohol producer where the public may taste, sample or purchase products.

Funds can be used for:

• Payments on any business mortgage obligation.
• Business rent payments – does not include prepayment of rent.
• Business debt service –both principal and interest; does not include any prepayment of principal or interest.
• Business utility payments.
• Business maintenance expenses.
• Construction of outdoor seating.
• Business supplies, including protective equipment and cleaning materials.
• Business food and beverage expenses, including raw materials.
• Covered supplier costs.
• Business operating expenses.

For information, contact the SBA South Dakota District Office at 605-330-4243.