Cumberland Ride Share Program
Ride Share Driver Support Grant
Turn Your Car Into a Paycheck — With Help From the City
Cumberland has funding set aside to help residents start driving for Uber or Lyft. Up to $1,130 is available to cover the real costs that stop most people from getting started , insurance add-ons, inspections, and equipment.
This money is for you.
Here's exactly how to get it.
What is this program?
The CEDC received federal Community Development Block Grant funding, money specifically designated to create economic opportunity for Allegany County residents driving in the City of Cumberland. This rideshare program is one way we're putting that money directly into the hands of people who want to work.
Only 10 drivers will be selected. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, so earlier is better.
This is a reimbursement program — meaning you pay for approved expenses first, then submit receipts and get repaid. The CEDC does not pay vendors directly.
Here's What the Money Covers
Most people don't start driving because of the upfront costs. This program is designed to remove those specific barriers:
Getting insured the right way — Uber and Lyft require a rideshare insurance addendum that your regular policy may not include. We cover up to $400 toward that.
Getting your car approved — Each platform requires a vehicle inspection. We cover up to $80 per platform.
Getting equipped — A dash cam, phone mount, and charging cable are the basics every driver needs. We cover up to $150.
Getting paid for your miles — Once you're active, you earn $0.70/mile for every mile driven within Cumberland city limits, up to $500.
Maximum reimbursement: $1,130
Who Can Apply
To qualify, applicants must:
Live in Allegany, Maryland
Be at least 18 years old
Be approved or actively onboarding with Uber or Lyft
Have a vehicle that meets platform requirements
Be available to drive at least 60 hours per month in the city limits
Submit all required documentation through our online application
Before You Hit Apply — Check This List
The application takes about 15 minutes. Have these ready before you start so you don't lose your progress:
☐ Your driver's license (photo or scan)
☐ Proof of citizenship (passport, birth certificate, or naturalization certificate)
☐ Your Uber or Lyft approval email — or your onboarding progress screenshot
☐ Your vehicle registration
☐ Proof that your insurance includes a rideshare addendum (call your agent if you're unsure ask for "TNC coverage")
Don't have rideshare insurance yet? You can still start your application.
Contact us at cumberlandrideshare@gmail.com and we'll walk you through next steps.
What Happens After You Apply
Submit your application — You'll receive a confirmation email within 1 business day.
Document review — CEDC staff will review your application within 5–7 business days.
Approval notification — If approved, you'll receive a welcome email with your next steps and reimbursement instructions.
Start driving — Begin tracking eligible miles and expenses from your approval date.
Submit monthly reports — For 6 months after approval, submit a simple monthly activity report to remain eligible for reimbursement.
Questions? Email cumberlandrideshare@gmail.com
Frequently Asked Questions
I'm not approved by Uber or Lyft yet. Can I still apply?
Yes. You can begin the application while you're in the onboarding process. You'll need to show proof of approval before funds are released.
Does my car have to be a certain year? Uber and Lyft each have their own vehicle requirements. Your car must meet the standards of whichever platform you're using. Check their websites for current requirements.
Do I pay taxes on this money?
The CEDC recommends consulting a tax professional. Reimbursements may be considered income depending on your situation.
What if I stop driving before 6 months? You'll be asked to submit documentation showing your activity. Contact us if your situation changes and any monies received will need to be returned to the grant.
Are there spots still available?
Yes, there are still spots available.
Ride Share Driver Support Grant
Turn Your Car Into a Paycheck — With Help From the City
Cumberland has funding set aside to help residents start driving for Uber or Lyft. Up to $1,130 is available to cover the real costs that stop most people from getting started , insurance add-ons, inspections, and equipment.
This money is for you.
Here's exactly how to get it.
What is this program?
The CEDC received federal Community Development Block Grant funding, money specifically designated to create economic opportunity for Allegany County residents driving in the City of Cumberland. This rideshare program is one way we're putting that money directly into the hands of people who want to work.
Only 10 drivers will be selected. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, so earlier is better.
This is a reimbursement program — meaning you pay for approved expenses first, then submit receipts and get repaid. The CEDC does not pay vendors directly.
Here's What the Money Covers
Most people don't start driving because of the upfront costs. This program is designed to remove those specific barriers:
Getting insured the right way — Uber and Lyft require a rideshare insurance addendum that your regular policy may not include. We cover up to $400 toward that.
Getting your car approved — Each platform requires a vehicle inspection. We cover up to $80 per platform.
Getting equipped — A dash cam, phone mount, and charging cable are the basics every driver needs. We cover up to $150.
Getting paid for your miles — Once you're active, you earn $0.70/mile for every mile driven within Cumberland city limits, up to $500.
Maximum reimbursement: $1,130
Who Can Apply
To qualify, applicants must:
Live in Allegany, Maryland
Be at least 18 years old
Be approved or actively onboarding with Uber or Lyft
Have a vehicle that meets platform requirements
Be available to drive at least 60 hours per month in the city limits
Submit all required documentation through our online application
Before You Hit Apply — Check This List
The application takes about 15 minutes. Have these ready before you start so you don't lose your progress:
☐ Your driver's license (photo or scan)
☐ Proof of citizenship (passport, birth certificate, or naturalization certificate)
☐ Your Uber or Lyft approval email — or your onboarding progress screenshot
☐ Your vehicle registration
☐ Proof that your insurance includes a rideshare addendum (call your agent if you're unsure ask for "TNC coverage")
Don't have rideshare insurance yet? You can still start your application.
Contact us at cumberlandrideshare@gmail.com and we'll walk you through next steps.
What Happens After You Apply
Submit your application — You'll receive a confirmation email within 1 business day.
Document review — CEDC staff will review your application within 5–7 business days.
Approval notification — If approved, you'll receive a welcome email with your next steps and reimbursement instructions.
Start driving — Begin tracking eligible miles and expenses from your approval date.
Submit monthly reports — For 6 months after approval, submit a simple monthly activity report to remain eligible for reimbursement.
Questions? Email cumberlandrideshare@gmail.com
Frequently Asked Questions
I'm not approved by Uber or Lyft yet. Can I still apply?
Yes. You can begin the application while you're in the onboarding process. You'll need to show proof of approval before funds are released.
Does my car have to be a certain year? Uber and Lyft each have their own vehicle requirements. Your car must meet the standards of whichever platform you're using. Check their websites for current requirements.
Do I pay taxes on this money?
The CEDC recommends consulting a tax professional. Reimbursements may be considered income depending on your situation.
What if I stop driving before 6 months? You'll be asked to submit documentation showing your activity. Contact us if your situation changes and any monies received will need to be returned to the grant.
Are there spots still available?
Yes, there are still spots available.