PROVIDENCE, R.I. (AP) — The city of Providence is throwing a lifeline to small businesses struggling during the coronavirus pandemic with microgrants of up to $10,000.

Officials on Monday said the microenterprise grant program will support more than 20 low-to-moderate income entrepreneurs and business owners.

Mayor Jorge Elorza called small businesses the backbone of Providence’s economy and the grant program will help them ride out the economic storm.

The businesses, typically ineligible for funding through federal programs, will be able to use the grants for business expenses including rent, staffing, utilities, and retail location modifications.