Svog

Svog, in the context of U.S. government relief programs, refers to the Shuttered Venue Operators Grant (SVOG). The program was created to assist live venue operators, theatres, museums, and related talent and production entities that suffered financial hardship as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. It is designed to help cover payroll and other eligible costs and to preserve the viability of venues that were closed or heavily restricted during the public health emergency.

Administration and funding: SVOG is administered by the Small Business Administration (SBA) and funded primarily through recent COVID-relief legislation, notably the American Rescue Plan Act, with subsequent appropriations. Eligibility extends to a range of shuttered venue operators and related entities, including live performance venues, promoters, museums, and motion picture exhibitors, that were in operation in the United States before the onset of the pandemic and that experienced a qualifying revenue decline or related disruption.

Grant details and use of funds: The program provides grants determined by a statutory formula and caps, intended to reimburse a portion of eligible costs. Eligible costs include payroll and benefits, rent or mortgage, utilities, and certain other operating expenses. The grant is generally intended to be used for these eligible costs during a designated period, and applicants may not substitute the funds for other forms of relief. Applicants may be subject to compliance and audit requirements.

Application process and status: Applications were accepted in multiple rounds during 2021–2022, with priority considerations for certain entities. As funding is limited, not all eligible applicants received awards, and the program operated under a fixed budget until funds were exhausted. By late 2023–24, new applications were closed, though previously awarded grants continued to be administered and monitored.