By Kyle Dubuque | President
Supporters of LEND,
We are excited to report the new year is off to a pretty (and) sweet start! Our team has been working to help 4 small business owners pitch for grant funding and launch their newest beauty and confectionery ventures.
Through our partnership with the City of Evanston Entrepreneurship Support Program, a $300,000 fund operated by City Council, LEND provides pro-bono training to help primarily minority and female business owners develop a short term growth strategy, model financial projections, and estimate start-up costs. These clients will use their comprehensive business plan to apply for grant funding up to $2500. Here are some of the latest business proposals:
D&N Salon/Hair Creation: As a longtime Evanston resident and experienced hair stylist, Annie Britt has always dreamed of owning her own shop. That dream came to reality in December, when she acquired D&N Salon from her former employer. LEND is helping her apply for grant funding to remodel the space, with a long term goal of teaching hair styling classes and offering certification for at-risk girls at Evanston High School.
Noir d'Ebene Chocolat et Patisserie: Bringing Louisiana Creole flavors to the Midwest, our client Shannon is passionate about exploring her family history; crafting chocolates and pastries is her art! She also operates a pro-bono educational program, empowering students to develop learning skills by engaging their taste for sweets.
YoFresh - Frozen Yogurt and Cafe: Accomplished leader, Doctorate in Theology and Professor at Garrett Evangelical Seminary, our client Larry is continuing to give back to the community. His cafe functions as a gathering place for local organization meetings, and features a children's play area; its a new spin on the YoFresh national model!
Agortles Dessert Shop: Ava Gordon is an award-winning gourmet baker committed to producing all-natural and fresh treats, the perfect balance between healthy and delectable. She is proud of her culture and continues to bring a mix of Jamaican and American recipes to the Evanston table.
After these business owners achieve start-up funding (licensing and legal fees), our goal is to oversee new store development and provide capital loans through our microfinance service. This is the start of long-term client relationships that make LEND so unique and effective!
Please follow our growth, client success stories, and support economic development in Evanston, IL by liking our page on Facebook; we appreciate your continued support!
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