At its April 28 meeting, the Malibu City Council approved the creation of the Small Business Micro Stabilization Grant Program to assist local businesses impacted by the recent fires, winter storms, and prolonged Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) closures.
“Every healthy community relies on thriving local businesses – they drive our economy, create local jobs and strengthen our community bonds,” said Mayor Marianne Riggins. “We recognize how the recent emergencies have impacted our businesses, and this grant program will help them bounce back even stronger. I hope that these grants will plant a seed and inspire others who love Malibu to join the efforts that are just getting underway, and to shop and dine in Malibu to help our local businesses survive.”
The Council approved allocating an initial $300,000 from the General Fund to provide grants ranging from $5,000 to $20,000. The program is designed to deliver immediate and flexible financial support to independently owned businesses within Malibu City limits that have experienced financial hardship due to the recent fires, winter storms and PCH closures.
Applications will be accepted from May 1 through May 31 with applications reviewed by the City’s Administration and Finance Subcommittee and awards made in June 2025 by the City Council. Eligible expenses will include rent, payroll, inventory replacement, equipment repairs, utilities, marketing and other recovery-related costs.
To qualify, businesses must:
- Have a valid business license issued by December 1, 2024, or statement of exemption
- Be located within Malibu City limits
- Demonstrate financial hardship linked to the disasters
- Provide a public benefit to the Malibu community
- Be in good standing with the City
The application is available at MalibuRebuilds.org/