Community Navigator Pilot Program
Program Objective
Per the American Rescue Plan, the SBA is authorized to create and administer a $100 million competitive grant program to various entities providing “Community Navigator” services, defined as the outreach, education and technical assistance targeting eligible small businesses to increase awareness of and participation in programs of the Small Business Administration. Community Navigators will focus on current and prospective small businesses to improve access to assistance and programs of Federal, State, Tribal and local entities.
Eligibility
Eligible Applicants
- Nonprofit Organization
Nonprofits having a 501(c) status with the IRS, other than institutions of higher education, economic development organization or similar organization, Native American tribal organization (other than Federally recognized tribal governments), Native American tribal government (Federally recognized), County governments, State governments, City or township governments, SBA Resource Partners (Small Business Development Centers, Women’s Business Centers, SCORE; and
Veterans Business Outreach Centers), Community Development Financial Institutions and Nonprofit Colleges and Universities.
Beneficiaries
- Small Business Person
How to Apply
Award Procedure
The proposal of eligible applicant is evaluated by a review panel. The SBA/Office of Entrepreneurial Development issues an award to the approved applicant.
Funding announcements are expected within 30 days following the close of the application period, as stated in the Notice of Funding Opportunity.
Program details & compliance
Description
The Community Navigator Pilot Program is designed to provide high quality support and assistance with pandemic relief programs and recovery services to small businesses. This program will leverage a “Hub” and “Spoke” model. Hubs are lead organizations with business development experience that will enlist Spokes as trusted, culturally and technically knowledgeable partners, to conduct targeted outreach to specific sectors of the entrepreneurial community. The Hubs have the experience, and the Spokes have credibility with the targeted small business communities, including supporting communities where English is a second language and offering technical assistance in languages other than English.
Mission Categories
Primary: Small Business
Use of Funds
Allowed Uses
Support small business technical assistance programs, outreach and assistance.
Reporting & Compliance
Applicable 2 CFR 200 Subparts
- Subpart B — General Provisions
- Subpart C — Pre-Federal Award Requirements
- Subpart D — Post-Federal Award Requirements
- Subpart E — Cost Principles
- Subpart F — Audit Requirements