The Jumpstart Permit Reimbursement Fund
The Jumpstart Fund is a program that helps new Culver City small businesses by reimbursing up to $5,000 of City permit fees. The program will be launched in two phases with $25,000 in each phase. Phase 1 will launch in April 2026 and Phase 2 will launch in September 2026.
To be eligible for the Jumpstart Fund, small businesses must:
- Operate a commercial, “brick and mortar” space within the boundaries of the City of Culver City
- Received a Culver City business license
- Businesses are required to be following all City and County regulations.
The City understands that permitting can vary depending on the business; therefore, businesses can participate up to 3 years after issuance of a Culver City business license.
The application process for Phase 1 will open on April 27, 2026 at 9 AM. An application will be made available on the City website. Submission requirements include an invoice of paid permit fees issued from the City for approved plans/work relative to Planning and Development Services, Engineering or Fire.
Once applications are received, applications will be vetted with the issuing department. All approved businesses will be required to submit a W-9 form to the City for reimbursement. The program will be conducted on a first-come, first served basis.
Definition of a small business: The City is in alignment with the classification of a small business according to the U.S. Small Business Administration, which includes:
- Be a for-profit business of any legal structure
- Be independently owned and operated
- Not be nationally dominant in its field
- Be physically located and operate in the U.S. or its territories