Diverse Erie, an organization committed to promoting equality and inclusivity, has allocated nearly $300,000 in grants to 25 small businesses within its region. These funds, sourced from the American Rescue Plan allotment of Erie County, range from $5,000 to $20,000 and aim to bolster the economy and aid businesses impaired by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. A broad spectrum of industries, such as restaurants, retail shops, and professional service providers, have benefited from this donation.
This funding allows these small businesses to prolong their operations, retain their staff, and serve their communities more effectively. Furthermore, it spotlights Diverse Erie and Erie County’s dedication to fostering the growth of small businesses in the course of their recovery from the pandemic’s dire effects.
These finances are primarily targeted toward businesses owned by and catering to the Black, Indigenous, and people of color (BIPOC) community within Erie County. This strategic allocation of finances aspires to establish an even economic groundwork and promote inclusivity. It encourages entrepreneurship and nurtures the growth of businesses within these regularly underrepresented communities.
Diverse Erie’s fiscal boost to local businesses
Chief Administrative Officer of Diverse Erie, Gary Lee, emphasises on the crucial role of small businesses in community development, job creation, and boosting local economy. Small businesses strengthen community unity by acting as social hubs and enriching local character.
The grant recipients include Steven Spearman, owner of Personal Results Fitness, and Denise and Rashad Alise Grady, co-owners of Heavenly Hands Early Learning Child Care Academy. This financial boost will greatly assist them in scaling up their businesses and delivering high-quality services.
Diverse Erie primarily serves businesses located in areas defined as Housing and Urban Development Qualified Census tracts and caters to individuals earning less than 60% of Erie County’s median income. Out of 75 grant applications, 25 were chosen based on criteria like income tax records, employee count, sales income, and area of operation.
Earlier in July 2023, the program disbursed over $300,000 in grants to another 29 small businesses. This echoes its ongoing commitment to spur economic growth and enforce equity within the local community. The program’s dedication to advancing local economic progress and fairness continues to inspire the local community, reinforcing its belief in equal opportunities and growth for all.
