The Portsmouth Economic Development Authority (EDA) supports the City's growing entrepreneurship and small business community through the Business Investment Grant program.
Grant programs are tailored to help new businesses, growing businesses, and established organizations making additional investments in the City of Portsmouth. For details on the programs and eligibility requirements, please download the application packages.
Please submit all questions regarding the grant program through the Contact Us Form or by calling 757-393-8804.
Completed applications, and the required documentation, can be submitted by email to econdev@portsmouthva.gov. Applications may also be submitted in person, or by mail, to 200 High Street, Suite 200, Portsmouth, Va. 23704.
Applications for the 2023 Fiscal year are accepted according to the submission schedule below. Applications received after the cutoff date will be considered by the Portsmouth EDA in the following round.
Round 1: Open October 1 - 31, 2022
Round 2: Open January 1 - 31, 2023
Round 3: Open April 1 - 30, 2023
Smart Start Business Development Grant
Provide financial support for new and recently established startups and small businesses to assist with expanding entrepreneurial opportunity, business resiliency, and organizational capacity building.
Smart Start Business Acceleration Grant
Provide financial support to established small businesses to advance and accelerate the growth and expansion of Portsmouth’s entrepreneurial and small business community.
Real Property Investment Grant
Provide new or relocating businesses, expanding businesses, and commercial property owners with the rehabilitation and redevelopment of interior and exterior spaces to visually enhance the local streetscape, and increase interest in the City of Portsmouth.