The Maryland Department of Transportation has allocated $500,000 in grants to more than 40 businesses as part of the second round of the Purple Line Small Business Grant Program. This initiative aims to support businesses affected by the construction of the Purple Line light rail project. The grants, ranging from $5,000 to $40,000, are intended to help these businesses maintain operations and retain jobs during this period.
Acting Secretary Samantha J. Biddle emphasized the importance of small businesses in Maryland’s economy and communities. “Small businesses are the heart of Maryland’s economy and its diverse communities, providing jobs, essential services and economic opportunities,” she said. She added that supporting these businesses during the Purple Line construction is crucial.
Launched in February 2025, the grant program plans to invest a total of $4 million over four years along the Purple Line corridor. Each year will see three rounds of funding distribution. In May 2025, $1 million was awarded following high demand from applicants. The latest round received over 350 applications.
Eligible businesses must be located within a quarter-mile radius of the Purple Line and have been operational since January 1, 2022. The grant amounts depend on business size and location, with funds applicable for various business-related expenses.
For those who missed out on this round or did not apply, another opportunity opens on October 6 with a deadline for applications set for November 14, 2025. More information about eligibility and application details can be found at https://purplelinemd.com/small-business-grants/.
The Purple Line project is currently 80% complete with significant progress made on rail installation and vehicle deployment at Glenridge’s Operations and Maintenance Facility. Dynamic testing will soon expand in Prince George’s County as part of preparations for operational readiness.
The Purple Line is a major infrastructure project spanning 16 miles with 21 stations from Bethesda to New Carrollton. It will connect with Metro’s Red, Green, and Orange lines as well as MARC, Amtrak, and local bus services.
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