; (B) is not in bankruptcy proceedings at the time of application; and (C) has a credit score equal to or greater than the minimum credit score required by the Administrator to receive a loan under section 7(a) of the Small Business Act ( 15 U.S.C. 636(a) ). (b) Application process The Secretary shall establish an application process to select individuals to participate in the pilot program. (c) Allowable expenses An individual may use financial assistance under the pilot program for the following expenses in connection with the establishment or operation of a qualified business enterprise: (1) Payment of a mortgage or lease with respect to property used regularly and exclusively to operate the qualified business enterprise. (2) Utilities, phone, and computer expenses. (3) Equipment, furniture, and machinery. (4) Vehicles and travel expenses. (5) Property maintenance costs. (6) Insurance. (7) Wages, salaries, payroll taxes, and benefits. (8) Supplies and other office expenses. (9) Professional fees, including legal and accounting services. (10) Advertising and marketing costs. (11) Such other expenses as the Secretary determines appropriate. (d) Amount and payment of financial assistance (1) The Secretary shall make available to an individual under the pilot program financial assistance in the following amounts: (A) In the first year of the pilot program, an amount equal to the sum of— (i) $20,000