top of page

Shopkeepers Awarded Spark Grants to Fuel Business Growth

NewBo City Market is proud to announce the recognition of multiple entrepreneurs through the inaugural Spark Grants program. Made possible by the generous backing of the Iowa Women's Foundation with support from the Cedar Grove Fund from the Greater Cedar Rapids Community Foundation, these grants stand as a testament to the enduring commitment to fostering equitable entrepreneurial growth in the community.

The Spark Grant program has been designed to propel the advancement of small enterprises nestled within the Market's business incubator community. By extending vital financial aid to start-up entrepreneurs, the program aims to ignite fresh ideas, amplify efficiency, and cultivate a thriving business ecosystem that ripples positive effects throughout the community.

The following NewBo City Market businesses are the recipients of the Spark Grant: Luna Gelato, The Barkery, Rare Bird Soap Shop, Lori Ann’s Candies, Capo’s Italian Beef, Tangled Heartstrings, Tree of Liminality, and Oja.


Carol Elliot of Luna Gelato used her Spark Grant funds to purchase a new gelato machine.

Carol Elliot, the founder of Luna Gelato, expressed heartfelt gratitude for the grant she received for her newest venture in February. "This grant made it possible for us to purchase a gelato machine, as well as cover some of the costs of starting a handmade gelato operation," Carol shared. The infusion of this new capability positions Luna Gelato to delight patrons with its array of frozen treats.


Missa Coffman, the creative force behind and founder of Tree of Liminality, lauded the game-changing investments enabled by her Spark Grant: "We purchased several pieces of book binding equipment, and we were able to buy a subscription for Adobe Creative Cloud." These upgrades solidify Tree of Liminality's capacity to craft new forms of art.


Elizabeth Rueschhoff, owner of Lori Ann's Candies, used these grant funds to purchase a tempering machine and a guitar cutter.

Elizabeth Rueschhoff, owner of Lori Ann's Candies, brimming with enthusiasm, shared, "We purchased a tempering machine as well as a guitar cutter to increase efficiency and capacity of production,” adding “These new tools have allowed us to more effectively meet demand.”






Oja restaurant owner, Kwai Butler, expressed her journey starting a business: "Our largest

purchase was our new refrigerated prep station. We also were able to outfit our space with the remaining grant funds. We hope to increase our capacity for catering, weekly specials,

Kwai Butler, owner of Oja, used her funds to outfit her new space at the Market.

and a larger menu offering." With these strategic enhancements, Oja stands poised to enhance their offerings, heightening the experience for its patrons by bringing fresh new flavors from Korean cuisine to the community.


Both the Iowa Women's Foundation and the Greater Cedar Rapids Community Foundation share a profound optimism about the transformative potential of the Spark Grant within the NewBo City Market community. "Supporting these innovative entrepreneurs as they navigate the path towards business expansion and community enrichment brings us immense satisfaction," remarked Sarah Blais, Senior Director of Market Operations at NewBo City Market.

The Spark Grant program stands as a dynamic testament to the partnership between the Iowa Women's Foundation, Greater Cedar Rapids Community Foundation, and NewBo City Market community. This collaboration exemplifies the considerable influence that focused support and collaborative efforts can wield in uplifting small businesses.


Are you ready to start your business at NewBo City Market? Click here to get started!

253 views24 comments

Recent Posts

See All

24 Comments


luko
Dec 09

Great to see local businesses thrive with the Spark Grant! Tools like Gunter Wilhelm products could really help chefs like those at Oja enhance their craft!

Like

Gary Holland
Gary Holland
Nov 28

The recent awarding of Spark Grants to several entrepreneurs at NewBo City Market is a commendable initiative aimed at fostering small business growth within the community. By providing essential financial support, these grants enable startups to implement innovative ideas and enhance operational efficiency, thereby contributing to a vibrant local economy. The collaboration between the Iowa Women's Foundation and the Greater Cedar Rapids Community Foundation exemplifies a strong commitment to equitable entrepreneurial development. The success stories of businesses like Luna Gelato, The Barkery, and Lori Ann’s Candies underscore the positive impact of such funding on local enterprises.

In the rapidly evolving financial landscape, aligning with platforms that prioritize both innovation and integrity is crucial. For those interested in exploring cryptocurrency investments,…

Like

alex
alex
Nov 25

Wow, this Spark Grant program is genuinely inspiring! It’s incredible to see how focused investments can directly impact small businesses and help them grow in meaningful ways. Each of the recipients is not just advancing their operations but also contributing to the vibrancy of their community—whether it’s Luna Gelato’s upgraded equipment or Lori Ann’s Candies scaling up their production. Programs like these show the power of community-driven initiatives in fostering entrepreneurship and innovation.

Speaking of growth and opportunity, if you’re looking to expand your own horizons financially, I’d recommend exploring https://1winpartners.in/ . It’s a trusted affiliate program offering transparent terms and tools to help you succeed, making it an excellent choice for those wanting to leverage their networks for additional…

Like

Suman Sharma
Suman Sharma
Nov 22

Discover the allure of Delhi Escorts Service as they bring a unique charm to any gathering. Whether you’re attending a wedding, corporate event, or simply enjoying the nightlife, the presence of an escort in Delhi can elevate the experience dramatically. You can share intriguing stories, dance the night away, or simply enjoy a candlelit dinner together.

Like

manisha pandey
manisha pandey
Nov 13

Kalkaji luxury and discreet escort services are for those who have a sense of refinement and class. To enjoy occasions formal events, or maybe private dinners, or just the kind of agency to add some sparkle to personal occasions Kalkaji Escorts offer an unforgettable experience portrayed by beauty, intellect, and a professional air.

Like
bottom of page