The city of Dubuque offers grants to small businesses participating in an eight-week personal and professional development program facilitated by the non-profit Fountain of Youth.
Economic Development Director Jill Connors for the city of Dubuque says Fountain of Youth works to end generational poverty. She says they're a good partnership with the city since the non-profit already programs professional development courses.
Businesses that meet income guidelines based on household income can participate in the program, including pairing with a Fountain of Youth business mentor. The mentor assists the company as they complete eight sessions over eight weeks of professional development lasting an hour, including two sessions discussing the applicant's businesses with the mentor.
Connors says the grant, totaling $5,000, is split into two payments: one $2,500 expense reimbursement at the midpoint of the program and the final $2,500 at the end of the program following city approval of expense reimbursement.
"When you've got $5,000 to help pay the rent or from some necessary supplies and equipment for your business, it can really make a difference," Connors said in a phone interview with WVIK.
Connors says the grant opportunity was initially set for startup businesses, but the city felt helping established small businesses would be a better use of funds.
Dubuque business owners can find household income data, eligible expense sheets, and other reporting documents on Dubuque's website.
The deadline to apply is Friday, September 27th, at 11:59 p.m.
