We understand that economic burdens from COVID-19 have been mounting for some of our business community and that the next couple of months do not necessarily promise to be better.
We are happy to hear that many businesses are doing well but for those that are struggling or are looking to better adapt to the Covid-19 challenges we want to do our part to directly help.
We are now offering a flexible mini-grant of up to $500 per award to help small businesses with marketing and digital development expenses incurred in December 2020, January and/or February 2021. The mini-grant is able to be offered thanks to community support and Covid-relief grants Main Street Beatrice received this year. Grants will be between $250-$500 each dependent on need and available funds.
Main Street Beatrice will provide the grant only to small businesses within the designated Main Street district (see map below) with priority given to our Contributing Partners and also our downtown Dining and Entertainment sector (example: theaters, restaurants, bars, event venues). Funds are limited and we understand that we may not be able to meet all requests.
The purpose of the grants are to:
1) Help provide a marketing opportunity to reach customers and communicate to them what steps or changes have been implemented to make a safe experience for them and what opportunities exist with our downtown shops. This can be digital, radio, paper, direct mailing, etc.
and/or
2) For our non-dining and entertainment sector we want to focus on applications that help a business develop or further develop their online presence (website, social media, online shopping/order, Google optimization, etc.) and/or delivery/curbside services. If you have already invested in a website, online sales platform, delivery, etc. since March 16th, 2020 those expenses can be considered as well.
Main Street Beatrice staff are always available to help you discuss business topics such as marketing and digital improvements. Call us, we would be happy to assist you, 402-223-3244.
Main Street Beatrice plans to launch a marketing campaign aimed at increasing local shopping and dining in the upcoming months, pushing a message around the need to support local businesses, and that it can/should be done so safely.
More details on the grant are in the application document below.
Printable or Digitally Fillable Application Form Can Be Found Here
