City of Tacoma
Community Reinvestment Project (CRP)
City of Tacoma Community Reinvestment Project (CRP)
The Community Reinvestment Project (CRP) was established by the Washington Department of Commerce to empower communities disproportionately affected by historical injustices, particularly those impacted by the enforcement of criminal laws and penalties related to drug possession and the War on Drugs.
Recognizing these inequities, the CRP is committed to addressing the lasting effects of these policies by providing equitable access to funding, resources, and opportunities. Through targeted outreach, flexible administrative processes, and direct investment in businesses and organizations, the City of Tacoma’s CRP aims to help rebuild and strengthen communities that have been historically marginalized and excluded from economic advancement.
Funding Opportunities (APPLY HERE)
Small Business Loans
- Uplift Loan Program
The Uplift Loan Program offers no-collateral loans of up to $100,000 for small businesses that have been excluded from traditional financing opportunities. This program supports Tacoma businesses impacted by systemic barriers, providing manageable loans to those with potential but limited cash flow or collateral. Whether you’re hiring staff, purchasing inventory, or expanding your services, the Uplift Loan Program helps you grow and contribute to Tacoma’s economy.
- Accelerator Loan Program
The Accelerator Loan Program provides loans ranging from $500,000 to $1,000,000, helping established Tacoma-based businesses with significant growth potential expand operations, improve efficiency, or scale into new markets. This program addresses challenges such as limited collateral while enabling large-scale growth and development.
Small Business Grants
- Commercial Rent Grant
The Commercial Rent Grant offers financial relief to Tacoma businesses by covering up to 50% of one year’s rent, with a maximum grant amount of $25,000. This grant is designed to help businesses reallocate funds typically spent on rent toward growth-driving activities such as hiring staff, marketing, or improving operations.
- Commercial Assets Grant
The Commercial Assets Grant provides funding for Tacoma businesses to purchase essential equipment, technology, or other assets that directly enhance operations and drive growth. This program helps businesses modernize, improve efficiency, and sustain long-term success by supporting investments that increase revenue, streamline processes, or expand services.
CLICK HERE TO APPLY FOR CRP GRANTS AND LOANS VIA SUBMITTABLE
Technical Assistance for Applicants
We understand that applying for funding can be a complex process. To support businesses, the City of Tacoma has partnered with Revby and Golden Gift Consulting to provide technical assistance. These organizations will assist businesses in preparing required documentation and completing their applications.
Both organizations will offer:
- One-on-One Support: Personalized assistance tailored to your business needs.
- Group Workshops: Sessions covering application best practices and documentation preparation.
Additionally, the City of Tacoma will host information sessions and application clinics to guide businesses through the application process.
Providers:
- Revby
- Golden Gift Consulting
- Wednesday, January 29th, 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM at the Tacoma Little Theater. Register to attend here
- Thursday, February 6th, 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM at the Star Center. Register to attend here.
Apply Now (APPLICATIONS OPEN JANUARY 21ST)
Applications are hosted on Submittable. Click below to begin your application:
Have more questions? Email: [email protected] or visit our FAQ page for detailed information.
City of Tacoma Community Reinvestment Project (CRP) Info Sessions
CRP Application Clinics – Get One-on-One Feedback
Need help finalizing your Community Reinvestment Project (CRP) application? If you’ve already started your application and want specific feedback or have questions, sign up for a 30-minute one-on-one session at one of our upcoming Application Clinics:
📍 Saturday, February 15th | 12:00 – 4:00 PM @ Traction Space, Downtown Tacoma
📍 Wednesday, February 19th | 3:00 – 7:00 PM @ Tacoma Urban League
During these sessions, you’ll receive personalized guidance on your application, ensuring your responses are strong and complete before submission. Space is limited, and an appointment is required.
City of Tacoma Community Reinvestment Project (CRP) FAQ
General Questions
What is the Community Reinvestment Project (CRP)?
The CRP is a City of Tacoma program funded by the Washington State Department of Commerce as part of a $200 million statewide initiative. Tacoma’s $3.6 million allocation provides loans and grants to Tacoma-based businesses to help them grow, create jobs, and strengthen the local economy.
What is the War on Drugs?
The War on Drugs refers to a series of policies and actions initiated in the 1970s by the United States government aimed at reducing the illegal drug trade. It was formally declared by President Richard Nixon in 1971, who described drug abuse as “public enemy number one.” The policies included strict drug enforcement laws, mandatory minimum sentencing, and increased funding for law enforcement and anti-drug campaigns.
While intended to reduce drug use and crime, the War on Drugs has been widely criticized for disproportionately targeting communities of color, particularly Black and Latino communities, leading to mass incarceration, systemic inequality, and long-term economic and social consequences. These policies have contributed to significant disparities in access to resources, opportunities, and justice for affected communities. Today, efforts to address the historical injustices of the War on Drugs include initiatives like the Community Reinvestment Project, which aims to empower and uplift the communities most impacted.
Who is eligible to apply?
- For-profit businesses (home-based or commercial brick-and-mortar) located within Tacoma city limits.
- Non-profits located within Tacoma city limits (eligible for loans only).
- Applicants must meet specific criteria for the funding program they are applying for (see program details below).
Can businesses apply for more than one funding program?
Businesses may apply for one of the loans and one of the grants at the same time; however, only one funding program will be awarded. Applicants cannot receive both a grant and a loan. Additionally, businesses applying for grants may only apply for either the Commercial Rent Grant or the Commercial Assets Grant—not both.
When do applications open?
Applications will be available starting [insert date]. Check back regularly or subscribe to updates for the latest information.
How do I apply?
Applications are hosted on Submittable. You can begin your application by clicking here.
Funding Programs
What types of funding are available?
The CRP offers four types of funding programs:
- Uplift Loan Program: Loans of up to $100,000. Available to eligible for-profit businesses and 501(c)(3) non-profits located within Tacoma city limits that have been in operation for at least three years.
- Accelerator Loan Program: Loans ranging from $500,000 to $1,000,000. Available to eligible for-profit businesses and 501(c)(3) non-profits located within Tacoma city limits that have been in operation for at least five years.
- Commercial Rent Grant: Covers up to 50% of one year’s rent, with a maximum grant amount of $25,000. Available to for-profit businesses located within Tacoma city limits that have been in existence as of January 1, 2024.
- Commercial Assets Grant: Provides funding up to $25,000 for equipment, technology, or other assets that directly support business growth. Available to for-profit businesses located within Tacoma city limits that have been in existence as of January 1, 2024.
What can the funding be used for?
Funding must be used for business growth and development activities, such as:
- Hiring staff.
- Purchasing inventory or equipment.
- Expanding or scaling operations.
- Investing in technology or operational improvements.
- Purchasing real estate or land
- Working Capital
Can I use the funding to pay off existing debt?
Debt refinancing may be an allowable use of the loans, depending on how it supports business growth.
Do I need collateral to apply for a loan?
No collateral is required for the Uplift Loan Program. For the Accelerator Loan Program, a lack of pre-existing collateral is not a disqualifier.
What is the maximum grant amount I can receive?
- Commercial Rent Grant: Up to $25,000. Businesses can calculate their maximum allowable request by determining 50% of their total rent for one year. For example, if your total annual rent is $40,000, you may request up to $20,000.
- Commercial Assets Grant: Up to $25,000, based on the cost of eligible assets.
Application Process
What documents will I need to apply?
The required documents vary by program but typically include:
- Proof of business registration or license. (loans and grants)
- Financial statements or tax returns. (loans)
- A lease agreement (Commercial Rent Grant).
- A narrative describing how the funding will be used to grow your business. (loans and grants)
Can I edit my application after starting it?
Yes, you can edit your application as many times as you need to on Submittable before submitting it. However, once you submit your application, editing will be locked, and no further changes can be made. Be sure to review all your responses thoroughly before submitting.
How will awardees be selected?
- Grants: Applications will be scored by a review panel. Scoring will be based on relevance to the CRP mission and goals, feasibility, and growth strategy.
- Loans: Applications will go through a flexible underwriting/scoring process that includes relevance to the CRP mission and goals, affordability, growth strategy, and debt readiness.
How long will it take to process my application?
This is an application period, not a rolling application process. The CRP is not operating on a first-come, first-served model. All applications will be reviewed after the application period closes, and applicants will be notified of decisions at the same time. We anticipate this process will be completed no later than April 2025, though this is subject to change.
Can I get assistance to prepare, complete, and submit a competitive application?
Yes! The City of Tacoma has partnered with Revby and Golden Gift Consulting to provide free technical assistance. Support includes:
- One-on-One Support: Tailored guidance for preparing required documentation and completing your application.
- Group Workshops: Sessions covering application best practices and document preparation.
Additionally, the City will host info sessions and application clinics to provide hands-on support. Visit Eventbrite to view upcoming session dates and registration details.