Applications for the Working Washington Grants: Round 5 and Convention Center Grant Programs are low as the Sept. 9 deadline draws near.

A partnership between the Washington State Department of Commerce and the Washington State Arts Commission (ArtsWA), the grant is for local businesses that have demonstrated financial hardship during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Eligibility requirements include having been in operation since before January 1, 2021, generating at least 51% of revenue within Washington state, and many other requirements. Local businesses that are eligible are small volunteer-driven organizations and for-profit businesses, including tribal member-owned business operating on a reservation with a license issued by a federally recognized tribe in Washington state.

Some examples of those who can apply are artists, artisans, and performers like painters, welders, woodworkers or voice-over actors along with businesses like museums, theaters, science centers, dance companies, symphonies and zoos.

According to the Department of Commerce website — where detailed guidelines and FAQs can be found — grant award amounts will vary and are subject to review and adjustment, depending on application volume and other factors. According to Diane Dobson of the Renton Chamber of Commerce, low applications for these grants “could jeopardizes the survival of cultural programming for all across the state.”

The applications require two narrative sections that must be 500 words or less, three years worth of tax documents and answering 12-15 simple questions.