The National LGBT Chamber of Commerce and Grubhub have partnered to create a program that will award $2 million in grants to LGBTQ+-owned restaurant and bars.
The funds were raised through Grubhub’s Donate the Change program, which enabled Grubhub and Seamless diners to opt-in, round up their order total, and donate the difference, with the company matching eligible donations from Grubhub+ members.
“We often say at NGLCC that ‘If you can buy it, an LGBTQ+-owned business can supply it.’ That is especially true of the LGBTQ+-owned restaurants across America who kept our communities and first responders fed throughout the pandemic. We’re proud to partner with Grubhub in offering these grants to support these businesses throughout the nation. America’s 1.4 million LGBTQ+-owned business owners have shown incredible resilience during the COVID-19 pandemic, and now, in turn, we can help them recover stronger than ever,” said NGLCC co-founder and president Justin Nelson, in a statement.
The grants are expected to range from $5,000 to $100,000. The NGLCC has also pledged to allocate 30 percent of the funds to businesses owned by people of color and transgender/gender non-conforming individuals.
“As the world starts to return to a new normal, we know many businesses are rebuilding and reopening, especially LGBTQ+-owned restaurants that are often the pillars of their communities,” said Kevin Kearns, senior vice president of restaurants at Grubhub, in a statement. “We’re thrilled to partner with NGLCC and give back to the LGBTQ+ community - one that has shown incredible strength and support for those in need throughout the pandemic.”
Applications are open until October 12, after which NGLCC and its partners will evaluate them and choose the grant recipients.
Related: Washington Football Team, Grubhub Partner; Many Restaurants Likely to Close if Restaurant Fund Not Replenished.