DETROIT — Food-based small businesses in metro Detroit will get another boost as the Charter One Foundation announces it will provide $50,000 in improvement grants through the Eastern Market to support local vendors and farmers.
The grants are part of Charter One’s Growing Communities program, an urban economic development initiative that focuses on job creation and reinvigorating neighborhoods by leveraging Michigan’s agricultural industry. This contribution is part of Charter One’s ongoing efforts and commitment to expand local food production and processing to create jobs, revitalize neighborhoods and increase the supply of healthy food to local areas.
“We’re excited to be partnered with the Charter One Foundation for the third round of the Growing Communities grant program,” said Randall Fogelman, vice president, business development, Eastern Market Corp. “With Charter One’s support many of the small food-based businesses here at the market and throughout the city have been able to grow their businesses.”
Grants awarded through the Charter One Growing Communities program will assist in providing a variety of small food-based businesses the opportunity to buy equipment, acquire land and hire staff.
“Charter One is committed to community here in Michigan,” said Karen Minghine, executive vice president, retail banking director of Charter One. “We have seen a great return on our investment in Michigan’s growing local food industry. This money will help contribute to a more successful economy by helping to create more local jobs and support local small businesses.”
Last year, 31 food businesses, most of which sell products at Eastern Market, were awarded funds from the Growing Communities grant program. Grant applications can be found on the Eastern Market website (DetroitEasternMarket.com). The application deadline is July 25 and grants will be awarded in September.
