The Small Business Administration’s Shuttered Venue Operators Grant (SVOG) program has begun accepting applications for relief.

The program will provide $16 billion in grants to shuttered venues that have been crushed by the coronavirus pandemic.

Entities which are eligible to apply include:

• Live venue operators or promoters;
• Theatrical producers;
• Live performing arts organization operators;
• Relevant museum operators, zoos and aquarium who meet specific criteria; and
• Motion picture theater operators; and more.

Venue operators can use the SVOG funding for payroll costs, rent payments, utility payments, worker protection expenditures, and more.

To apply, applicants must have been in operation as of February 29, 2020. A venue or promoter who received a PPP loan on or after December 27, 2020, will have the SVOG reduced by the PPP loan amount.

Local venues can find more information on the SVOG program and eligibility at https://www.sba.gov/funding-programs/loans/covid-19-relief-options/shuttered-venue-operators-grant; and begin applying for assistance at https://www.svograntportal.sba.gov/s/.