Oklahoma City's Micro Business Grant Keeps Doors Open

Oklahoma City is providing extra help to some small businesses in the wake of COVID-19.

It's now accepting applications for a new grant program.

Business with five or fewer employees in urban renewal areas of Oklahoma City are eligible to receive a $10,000 grant.

Emmanuel Sosanya who opened Intentional Fitness last year on Northeast 23rd Street plans to apply for the grant.

“It will help tremendously,” said Sosanya.

Since the pandemic started, gyms closed and are only now reopening.

Sosanya said clients dropped membership.

The program has $400,000, but city leaders could potentially add to the fund at a later date.

“They provide a very important service to the communities where they are in,” said Cathy O’Connor, the President of the Alliance for Economic Development.

Sosanya plans to use the money to pay rent.

He’s grateful to be able to keep his business open in Northeast OKC during such tough times.

“I’m glad I was able to open it and I’m glad I was able to open it here,” said Sosanya.