Frequently asked questions (FAQs) SF Thrives Grant

Eligibility and location

Q: Can I apply if I temporarily closed during COVID but reopened at the same location?

A: Yes, as long as your business was originally open before December 31, 2020, and is currently operating at the same location under the same active BAN number. Temporary closures due to COVID-19 do not disqualify you.

Q: My business is on a corner or shared building. How do I know if I’m in the right area?

A: Use the eligible boundaries map to check your exact address. Your business must be fully inside the eligible area. If you’re not sure, email investsf@sfgov.org with your address and we’ll help you check.

Q: I am an Anchor or Legacy Business; do I still have to submit an eligibility form?

A: Yes. Regardless of your business status, all interested businesses must submit an eligibility form.

Q: My business moved within the same neighborhood eligible boundaries after 2020. Am I still eligible?

A: Yes, you are eligible. You must verify that your BAN number was open on or before December 31, 2020 and remained active.

Documentation and reimbursement

Q: What if I don't have all my receipts or documents yet, can I still apply and submit them later?

A: No. This is a reimbursement-only program. If you are selected to apply, you must show proof that you already paid for the eligible expenses. Only receipts or invoices dated on or after January 1, 2025 will be accepted. Please have all your documents prepared before applying—we will not accept any additional documents after submittal. Be sure to submit your application before it closes on January 5, 2026, at 5:00pm.

Q: What are the eligible reimbursements that this grant covers?

A: Eligible reimbursements include:

• Utilities (water, gas, electricity, Recology, internet, phone)
• Employee wages/payroll
• Rent
• Insurance

Q: Are bank or credit card statements acceptable proof of payments?

A: You can include a bank or credit card statements as supporting documentation, but you must submit the original receipts or paid invoices that go with the charges as well.

Q: What if my utility bills are bundled (e.g., internet + phone)?

A: Bundled bills are eligible as long as the invoice clearly shows the date, amount paid, and services provided.

Q: I have several eligible receipts. Can I submit them all?

A: Yes we can accept up to $10,000 in eligible receipts, but we recommend that you submit your highest cost receipts first to streamline the process.

Q: How can I provide rent payment verification if I don't receive receipts from my landlord?

A: An active signed lease agreement can be provided. Leases that are month-to-month may need additional verification.

Application process

Q: I submitted the eligibility form. Do I need to submit anything else?

A: Not yet. If you’re chosen to move forward, we’ll email you an application link on Friday, November 21, 2025, to finish the full application. Until then, you don’t need to do anything else.

Q: Can I edit my eligibility verification form after submitting it?

A: No. Please ensure your form is accurate before submitting.

Q: I submitted the eligibility form, what are my next steps?

A: Our team will review all forms to determine eligibility. Only those who are selected will be invited to apply. NOTE: Eligible Tenderloin, Mid-Market, and SOMA businesses will be entered into a lottery.

Q: I am a registered Neighborhood Anchor or Legacy business. Will I be entered into the lottery?

A: No. Based on SEC. 2A.245, all eligible Neighborhood Anchor and Legacy businesses will be prioritized.

Q: What if I don’t receive the notification email—how can I check my status?

A: All applicants will get an email. If you do not receive a notification by Friday, November 21, 2025 by 5:00 PM, please check your spam folder or contact investsf@sfgov.org.

Q: What happens if I miss the formal application deadline but still qualified for the program?

A: You won’t be able to receive grant funding if you miss the deadline. The application form will take 20 minutes or less if you have the required documents prepared. The system will automatically close the application on January 5th, 2026, at 5:00 PM. Make sure to submit your completed form before the deadline.

Q: Is help available if I need assistance filling out the form or using a computer?

A: Yes. You can get free assistance from local nonprofits. They can help you fill out the form, upload receipts, or answer questions. Check our list of nonprofit resources

Q: Can I get help in my language?

A: We will offer webinars in English, Cantonese, Spanish, Filipino and Vietnamese on October 29, 2025. Need another language? Check our list of nonprofit resources

Funding and payment

Q: Will I receive the full $10,000 if I am selected?

A: Maybe. The grant amount will depend on the eligible receipts you submit. The maximum award is up to $10,000, but your final amount will be based on your approved expenses.

Q: How long will it take to get the money after I’m approved?

A: After you receive your official award letter, our partners at SF New Deal will reach out to you to set up direct deposit. Once you complete setup, you will receive your funds within 30 days.

Q: Is the grant considered taxable income?

A: Yes, this grant is considered taxable income.

Special cases and other questions

Q: I was open during COVID and currently open, I am unsure if I will be open next year. Can I still apply?

A: Yes. As long as you’re open now and plan to stay open, you can apply. Applicants must make a good faith effort to remain open for at least 12 months after funding. If your business is struggling, we're here to help. Get connected with free small business counseling.

Q: I share a storefront with another business — can we both apply?

A: No. Grant awards are up to $10,000 per address.

Q: My business is part of a nonprofit but operates like a storefront, can I apply?

A: Yes, if your nonprofit has a storefront that lost money during COVID and is current with the Registry of Charitable Trusts, you can apply. For example, a nonprofit arts organization runs a ticketed gallery space in the Tenderloin. The gallery sells tickets to the public and was open before December 31, 2020. It had to close temporarily during the pandemic and lost revenue. The organization is up to date with its charitable registration. This nonprofit would be eligible to apply.

What to expect after you apply

• You’ll get a confirmation email with a copy of your responses. You cannot submit more receipts after your application is approved—so make sure everything is included.
• After submitting your full application, you’ll be notified of your award status in January 2026.
• If approved, your grant will be sent by direct deposit once all steps are complete.

STILL HAVE QUESTIONS? EMAIL US: investsf@sfgov.org

Need help in another language or with technology? List of nonprofit resources