By Journal Staff

MARQUETTE — Velodrome Coffee Co. of Marquette and Ishpeming is one of 28 Michigan small businesses that has been awarded with a Match on Main grant, according to a press release from the office of Gov. Gretchen Whitmer Friday.

After collaborating with the Marquette Downtown Development Authority, Velodrome will be receiving $25,000 from the state’s program which aims to support small, Main Street businesses across Michigan. Velodrome will be using the funding for improvements on equipment and interiors of the building. The money will also help the coffee shop open at a new location and create a rain garden and composting area for customers.

“Michigan’s small businesses define our downtowns, and with today’s Match on Main grants, we are supporting small businesses in both peninsulas,” said Whitmer in the release. “Together, we are going to make communities across Michigan more attractive places for families to live and work and for businesses to grow and invest. Let’s keep our foot on the accelerator as we grow our economy, support good-paying jobs, and build thriving towns across Michigan”

Three other Upper Peninsula businesses were awarded grants as well. Cibo Inc. of Houghton, who operates the Den Restaurant, will be converting their outdoor space into a dining area using funding. Nisu Bakery & Cafe in Hancock will be doing a similar project. Bird’s Eye Outfitters of Sault Ste. Marie will be using funding to construct and furnish their outdoor dining area.

The Match on Main grants are used for business eligible expenses for technical assistance, interior building renovations, creations of outdoor spaces and several other needs, including, but not limited to marketing and inventory projects.

“Thriving small businesses are the cornerstone of what makes Michigan’s downtowns unique and authentic while helping to create economic opportunity across the state,” said Michigan Economic Development Corporation Senior Vice President of Small Business Services Amy Rencher. “These Match on Main grants will help local businesses find new paths to growth and create and retain jobs, while further developing vibrant, unique, and attractive places where people want to live, work, and play.”