KALAMAZOO, MI (WKZO AM/FM) — 35 local small business around the state are slated to get some funds through the Michigan Economic Development Corporation’s Match on Main grant Program. And several of the recipients are in communities throughout Southwest Michigan.
Governor Gretchen Whitmer made the announcement on Monday, December 12 of more than $800,000 dollars in grants which are aimed at supporting small local businesses to create resiliency and strengthen downtowns.
Small businesses in the following Southwest Michigan communities will each receive a $25,000 grant. They include Allegan (Heronmark Farms, LLC ), Albion (Share LLC), Cassopolis (Curtis Place LLC), Coldwater (Shemel’s Inc.), Kalamazoo (Haymarket Event Center LLC), Marshall (Maria’s Uncorked LLC), South Haven (Decadent Dogs LLC), and Wayland (Big Dipper Ice Cream & Desserts LLC ).
Grants may be used by the business for eligible expenses that support technical assistance, interior building renovations, permanent or semi-permanent activation of an outdoor space, permanent or semi-permanent business infrastructure related to COVID-19 recovery efforts, and other working capital needs such as marketing needs and inventory expenses.
Additional needs identified by the business and supported by the local community are also considered
According to a news release from the Governor’s office, the grants are expected to create or retain 296 full-time jobs with the projects expected to generate a total private investment of more than $2.7 million.
Of the 35 grant recipients, 26 are existing and nine are new businesses.
