SAN ANTONIO — The City of San Antonio has more than $80 million in American Rescue Plan Act funding. A large chunk they plan to invest in small businesses.

Zain Alsalami owns Beirut Grill and feels at home in the kitchen.

“I love cooking,” Alsalami said. “Since I was like 10-12.”

About 10 years ago, Alsalami immigrated from Baghdad to Texas. He worked his way up in other restaurants before he could finally open his own.

“I opened in 2018. Everything was perfect,” Alsalami said. “Had a lot of customers. We started perfectly.”

But then 2020 changed things for the Beirut Grill.

“When COVID hit, we had to close because no customers,” Alsalami said. “It was a nightmare to the restaurant businesses.”

Two years later, Alsalami says not even half of his customer have returned. So he can only afford to have one other employee.

“Labor from $9 it jumped to $15. And it’s very hard to find labor,” Alsalami said.

He helps in the kitchen, serving tables and at the register.

“I’m working every day, 17 hours a day,” Alsalami said. “I own the place. I have to keep it.”

Caitlin Cowart is an economic development manager with the City of San Antonio. Applications are now being accepted for COVID impact grants.

“The federal government recognizes that businesses are still suffering, and that’s exactly what this program is for,” Cowart said.

Phase 1 has $17 million in ARPA funding to invest in struggling small businesses.

“Up to $$35,000. The grants are $15,000, 25 and 35,” Cowart said.

Alsalami has already applied for the grant. With inflation and the high cost associated with business, he says he needs that money ASAP.

“It’s going to help the business a lot,” Alsalami said. “And we’re hoping we get so we can hire more people. Get more inventory and supplies.”

This restaurant is how Alsalami feeds his family. So he hopes things will level out soon.

“We’re here for our community,” Alsalami said. “We’re going to stay here and survive.”