Gov. Tony Evers, at an event in La Crosse joined by Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation (WEDC) Secretary and CEO Missy Hughes, announced he will invest an additional $25 million into the Main Street Bounceback Grant Program, which has already helped more than 4,200 small businesses and nonprofits across all 72 Wisconsin counties.
In total, Tuesday’s announcement brings the governor’s total spending on the program to $75 million, which will enable 2,500 more small businesses and nonprofits to fill empty storefronts.
“The impact we’ve had through our Main Street Bounceback Grant Program over the last year has been tremendous, truly helping small businesses and main streets in every corner of our state,” said Evers. “We’ve heard from folks from across the state about how these funds have helped them take their businesses to the next level. We’ve also seen firsthand how these investments have helped support local economies in downtowns and communities that are now filled with unique businesses that otherwise might not be there today. I’m proud of our work making strategic investments in small businesses and I’m excited that today’s announcement means we’ll be able to continue our work supporting main streets and communities across Wisconsin.”
The Main Street Bounceback Grant Program was first announced in April 2021, and since, more than 4,200 small businesses and nonprofits across all 72 Wisconsin counties have been approved for $10,000 grants to help them move or expand into vacant commercial spaces.
“From barbershops to candy stores and from physical therapists to local economic development groups, the businesses and organizations that have received Main Street Bounceback grants vary widely,” said Hughes. “But what we’re hearing from all of the communities where these businesses are opening is the sense of excitement that they bring. Whether it’s a new restaurant, a hair salon, or an accounting business, there’s a feeling that there are new reasons to come to our downtowns and spend a little more time there.”
[Adapted from: Gov. Evers: $25 million more for Main Street Bounceback Grant Program May 10, 2022 La Crosse Tribune]