Rep. Delgado Visits Upstate Films, Highlights SBA Shuttered Venue Operators Grant Program

Press Release

Today, U.S. Representative Antonio Delgado (NY-19) visited Upstate Films to meet with co-Executive Director Jason Silverman and Programs Manager Jacob Haisley. The Congressman and Upstate Films' staff spoke about the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) Shuttered Venue Operators Grant (SVOG) program, which provides emergency assistance for venues. As a member of the House Small Business Committee, Rep. Delgado pushed to include SVOG funding in Congress's December COVID-19 package and the American Rescue Plan.

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"For an entire year, live venues across upstate have closed their doors and kept their stages empty," said Rep. Delgado. "The Shuttered Venue Operators Grant is a lifeline to folks like Upstate Films. I was proud to push for this program and help deliver billions to protect jobs and art in communities across the United States. Thank you, Upstate Films, for sharing your experience during the COVID-19 pandemic. We must continue to support venues throughout our nation's recovery."

"Representative Delgado's visit was a source of inspiration for us," said Upstate Films' co-Executive Director Jason Silverman. "The congressman and his colleagues have provided courageous and visionary leadership in helping the Hudson Valley--and our nation--heal and recover during these tough times. We especially appreciate Representative Delgado's focus on community and the economy, and we share his belief that cultural institutions can be key players in building our region back stronger than ever."

"Help is here for venue operators hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic. The SBA has worked diligently to build the Shuttered Venue Operators Grant program from the ground up to assist and address the diverse eligibility requirements of each type of applicant and we will open for applications on April 8," said SBA Administrator Isabella Casillas Guzman. "The SBA knows these venues are critical to America's economy and understands how hard they've been impacted, as they were among the first to shutter. This vital economic aid will provide a much-needed lifeline for live venues, museums, movie theatres and many more."

The American Rescue Plan appropriated an additional $1.25 billion, bringing SVOG program funding to a total of $16.25 billion, with more than $16 billion allocated for grants. As the SBA builds and prepares to open the program, the dedicated SBA website, www.sba.gov/svogrant, which includes frequently asked questions, video tutorials and other SVOG details, is the best source for information for those looking to apply for a grant.

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