Shelby Foundation Urges Small Businesses to Seek Help

The Shelby Foundation is urging local business owners to contact the Economic Development Liaison, Jessica Gribben, to find help for government driven loans.

Joe Wechter, board chair, said, “Jessica Gribben is a valuable resource in the Shelby community. We are fortunate to have her locally as an extension of the Richland Area Chamber of Commerce. Jessica and the Chamber team are educated on the various stimulus packages and can help Shelby business owners as they apply.”

Director Carrie Kemerer said, “With all the state and federal grants and loans in motion to help small businesses, it can be very overwhelming. Applying for financial assistance can be a daunting task. Utilizing Jessica’s knowledge will help business owner’s get needed money so they can get back to businesses when things return to normal.”

The Foundation believes in the importance of economic development and has invested annually to this position.  When the Foundation was approached two years ago by the Community Improvement Corporation to financially contribute to the economic development position, the board unanimously voted to approve. The position’s primary focus is business expansion and retention but has now pivoted under current economic strain.

To discuss funding assistance for small businesses, contact Jessica Gribben at 419-342-4159 or the Richland Area Chamber of Commerce at 419-522-3211.