Milwaukee Downtown, BID #21 is helping restaurants, bars, retailers and service providers get back on their feet. Launched Thursday, the organization’s new grant program, MKE It Back, will provide $100,000 in aid to small businesses.

The grant aims to bridge the financial gaps anticipated now through the middle of 2021 when COVID-19 vaccines are expected to be more widely available and the remaining downtown workforce returns.

Businesses that are a BID #21 ratepayer, or located in a BID #21 tax assessed property, and fall under the outlined categories (restaurant, bar, retailer, spa, salon, dry cleaner, etc.) will be eligible for up to $5,000
in assistance. Funding can be applied towards operating expenses and/or innovative marketing pivots.

“Our small businesses continue to be challenged by the effects of the pandemic,” said Beth Weirick, CEO of Milwaukee Downtown, BID #21. “Through the MKE It Back grant program, we hope to provide
much-needed relief to the businesses most deeply impacted.”

The MKE It Back grant will match up to $5,000 in anticipated expenses. All expenses will need to be incurred by July 1, 2021.

Eligible businesses can apply online at milwaukeedowntown.com/mke-it-back-grant.

Prompt submittal of the online application is encouraged and must be received by Feb. 16, 2021 for consideration. Applications will be reviewed by the grant advisory committee until all funding is dispersed. The application deadline may be extended beyond Feb. 16, 2021 for a round two review
should the allocated $100,000 not be dispersed in its entirety.

For a complete list of eligibility requirements and to apply for the MKE It Back grant, visit milwaukeedowntown.com/mke-it-back-grant.