Martinez Businesses Compete to Win $250,000

America's small businesses are racing against the clock this week for enough votes to be considered for a hefty prize. 

Chase and LivingSocial have teamed up to offer 12 separate grants of $250,000 to a range of small businesses across the country, and Martinez has four businesses in the running.

Those that wish to be considered for the money must collect at least 250 votes by June 30. Business are required to register with Mission: Small Business to enter the competition.

As of Monday evening, four Martinez businesses were participating in the contest. Most were a long way from the 250-vote goal, including Events to the 'T', Inc., with 18 votes; The Elder Care Team with 29 votes; Shop Around the Clock with two votes and with five votes.

To vote, visit https://www.missionsmallbusiness.com, then log in using Facebook. Scroll down to the "Vote Local" section, and enter the city and state using the drop-down menus.

The grants "are intended to help up to 12 small businesses grow by expanding, upgrading equipment, or improving a product or service."

A panel of business executives will review those that get enough votes to decide who will receive the grants.

Grant recipients will be announced in September. 

Which Martinez business would you vote for? Let us know in the comments.