MDOT offers grants to small businesses along Purple Line alignment

The Maryland Department of Transportation (MDOT) is accepting grant applications from small businesses impacted by construction along the Purple Line alignment in Montgomery and Prince George’s counties.

The Purple Line Small Business Grants Program will support business operations during construction closures or detours, as well as provide marketing support for businesses along the alignment during construction of the 16-mile light rail project. The four-year program will invest $4 million in eligible businesses along the Purple Line corridor, MDOT officials said in a press release.

Grant award amounts of up to $50,000 will vary based on location of the business, construction impacts and whether the business is located in areas designated for community and economic development, revitalization and sustainability. Up to three application rounds will take place each year. The first round of applications is due March 14. Program details and the grant application can be found at purplelinemd.com.

Eligible small business applicants must operate a customer-facing business within one-quarter of a mile from the Purple Line alignment and have been open and operational since Jan. 1, 2022. Small businesses are eligible if they meet one or more of the following criteria: 50 or fewer employees, gross sales averaging $2 million or less, or are certified in Maryland’s Small Business Reserve Program.

“These grants will support the businesses whose operations are impacted by construction to ensure they remain open and are ready to thrive once the Purple Line opens," said Maryland Transportation Secretary Paul Wiedefeld.

When completed, the Purple Line will provide a direct connections to Metrorail, Amtrak and MARC trains.