Important information from PurpleLineMD about an important opportunity for small businesses located along the Purple Line corridor. The Purple Line Small Business Grants Program, operated by the Maryland Department of Transportation, offers grants of up to $50,000 to eligible small businesses impacted by Purple Line construction.
Applications must be submitted to business@purplelinemd.com. A link to Maryland's OneStop Portal for online applications will be available soon. Program information and applications will be provided in English, Spanish, and Amharic.
Download Small Business Grant Application through Purple Line MD
PROGRAM OVERVIEW (As shared by PurpleLineMD)
Eligible businesses may receive grants to help offset the impact of construction on operations. Grant funds must be used for business-related expenses, such as:
- Payroll and healthcare benefits
- Business rent or mortgage payments
- Utility payments for business locations
- Supplier payments, machinery, and equipment
Funds will be distributed within 30 days of the grant award notice.
ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA
To be eligible, businesses must:
- Be in good standing with the Maryland State Department of Assessments and Taxation.
- Be open and operational prior to January 1, 2022.
- Be located within a quarter-mile of the Purple Line Light Rail tracks.
- Qualify as a small business, defined as:
- 50 or fewer employees, OR
- Gross sales averaging $2 million or less over the past three years, OR
- Certified in Maryland’s Small Business Reserve Program.
Please note: Certain types of businesses, such as cannabis-based businesses, gun shops, liquor stores, tattoo parlors, and similar establishments, are not eligible for funding.
2025 GRANT SCHEDULE
- Round 1: Opens Feb. 10 | Applications Due March 14 | Awards Announced April 14
- Round 2: Opens May 12 | Applications Due June 27 | Awards Announced July 28
- Round 3: Opens Sept. 8 | Applications Due Oct. 24 | Awards Announced Nov. 19
The program runs annually through 2028, with $1 million in funding available each year, split between Prince George’s and Montgomery counties.
For full program details, please visit PurpleLineMD or contact business@purplelinemd.com.