Governor Gretchen Whitmer announced yesterday that 63 small businesses across the state, including two Thumb area businesses, would receive support from the Michigan Strategic Fund (MSF) through the Michigan Economic Development Corporation’s Match on Main program.
The $1.49 million in grants awarded to small local businesses will create resiliency and strengthen downtowns in Main Street communities throughout the state. The Match on Main program serves as a tool to support new or expanding place-based businesses by providing up to $25,000 in funding for them to launch or grow in core downtown areas and commercial districts.
Of the FY25 Match on Main grantees awarded, 17 are new businesses and 46 are existing businesses, including 20 restaurants, 22 retail establishments, four service businesses, and 17 other businesses that demonstrate a commitment to revitalizing community infrastructure and boosting local employment.
The Lapeer Downtown Development Authority was awarded $25,000 to support The Doghouse Coffee, a local coffeehouse that donates a portion of their profits to animal rescues and no-kill shelters.
Tuscola County’s Village of Cass City, meanwhile, was awarded $25,000 to support the Oak Room, an upcoming wine bar and entertainment venue proposed by Market on Main business owner Kellen Mooney.
