RESOURCES FOR OUR LOCAL BUSINESSES
Main Street West Branch is dedicated to helping businesses new and old, big and small, from all sectors of our economy access the resources they need to grow and thrive within our community.
RETAIL ROUNDTABLES
Twice a year MSWB gathers retail business owners for a structured but informal discussion about what's working, what's not working and how to ensure success through sharing experience, resources and collaboration.
These are limited to retail owners with businesses in the downtown district and are invite only.
REVOLVING LOAN FUND
Loans in amounts from $500 to $5,000* with as low as 0 % interest are available to local businesses for the purpose of business improvement, expansion, equipment, inventory or facade repairs. Applications are accepted throughout the year and reviewed by our Economic Vitality Committee.
MAIN STREET IOWA CHALLENGE GRANT
The Challenge Grant is a competitive 1:1 matching grant for $25,000-$100,000 that can be used on facade improvements, upper floor interior rehabilitation, structural repairs/improvements, code compliance, first floor interior rehabilitation, energy efficiency/sustainability improvements, and permanent physical improvements to Main Street district properties. Awards are announced each winter. Contact Jessi at mainstreetwestbranch@gmail.com if you are interested in this opportunity.
OPEN FOR BUSINESS GRANT
This grant opportunity is designed to encourage business expansion in Main Street districts. Eligible expenses are inventory, equipment, marketing, computers, software upgrades (etc). Business must provide a 25% match. Awards range from $8k-$28k. A local contest is held in March/April and West Branch's winner competes for state funding with an application due in May, awards in August. Contact Jessi at mainstreetwestbranch@gmail.com if you are interested in this opportunity.
QUARTERLY BUSINESS NETWORKING
We strive to gather our local business owners and community leaders to collaborate, network, share feedback and brainstorm once a quarter. Stay tuned for the next "Coffee & Collaboration".
Contact Jessi at mainstreetwestbranch@gmail.com to be added to the invitation e-mail list.
MAIN STREET IOWA DESIGN ASSISTANCE
MSWB has access to Design Consultants through Main Street Iowa to meet with building owners in the Main Street District to develop a custom conceptual design for potential renovation, reuse or facade restoration projects. This is a free service. Contact Jessi at mainstreetwestbranch@gmail.com if you are interested in this opportunity.
