The city of Wichita will set aside $10 million for workforce development and small business/entrepreneurial development.
The money comes from the city's $72.4 million in ARPA funding, and will address the negative economic impacts of the pandemic.
The city will award the grants through an application process on the city's web site but says individuals and entities not in operation for at least a year are not eligible.
Businesses can begin applying on December 22. Applications are due by Noon on February 2, 2022. Businesses will be notified starting February 22.
The council also approved spending $2.3 million dollars on new radios for the fire department.
Wichita Fire Chief Tammy Snow said radio replacement is required every 8 years. By purchasing the new units before the end of the year, the city will avoid a 10% price increase set to occur in January.
