As we head into the holiday season, I want to talk about something that makes Bloomington so special: the people who choose to invest their time, talent and dreams in our community.
Our small businesses are the backbone of Bloomington. They are owned by our neighbors, employ our residents and bring energy and character to our neighborhoods. When we support them, we strengthen the entire community.
This year, the City has worked to make sure our local businesses know we’re in their corner. Through the Hatch Bloomington Loves Local small business grant program, five Bloomington businesses received funding to help grow their businesses. The quality of this year’s applicants speaks to the strength and diversity of Bloomington’s small business community. Ten businesses advanced to the final pitch event, and the quality of their ideas and commitment to Bloomington impressed our judges so much that the Bloomington Port Authority added $24,000 to the program, bringing the total awarded to $124,000.
We also welcomed the Immigrant Entrepreneurs Summit to Bloomington for the first time. That was an important opportunity to celebrate the contributions of immigrant entrepreneurs, share ideas and strengthen connections across our business community.
These efforts matter, especially during a challenging year for many immigrant-owned businesses and members of our immigrant community. We have a responsibility to show up for one another, support one another and make sure everyone knows they are welcome in Bloomington.
And we are not stopping there. The City is working with Hennepin County on a new initiative that will encourage residents to shop at locally owned businesses by providing rewards for eligible purchases.
No need to wait for a new program or Small Business Saturday on November 28, though. Buy a gift card. Try a local restaurant. Shop at a neighborhood business. Tell your friends about a business you love. Every purchase is a vote for the kind of community we want to be. When we show up for our local businesses, we show up for our neighbors. That is how we keep Bloomington strong, connected and welcoming.
