To support Oakland small businesses that have been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, the Economic & Workforce Development Department (EWD) engaged with Main Street Launch to administer the Oakland CARES Act Small Business Grant Program to distribute more than $4 million in direct financial support to 402 Oakland-based small businesses. The $10,000 grants helped to prevent displacement and closures of small businesses that contribute to the City’s diversity, vibrancy, and character. Some $2 million in funds were specifically earmarked for businesses located in Opportunity Zone-designated and other low-income census tracts.