Grant Money Allows Aurora Small Businesses To Make Big Changes

AURORA, IL—Thirteen downtown Aurora business will be getting upgrades this summer, proof that post-pandemic growth is rising.

Small business grants, approved by Aurora Downtown, will filter $40,000 into downtown improvements.

Aurora Downtown’s Business Attraction and Retention (BAR) Committee offered the grants, of up to $5,000, to be used towards awnings, signage, building improvements, and marketing efforts.

“The programs and improvements reflect the downtown’s historic identity, diverse art and music scene, and overall strength as a business community,” said Kristine Walker, Aurora Downtown board member who serves on the BAR committee. “We are excited for everyone to see the revitalization efforts. ”

Grant recipients include The Yetee, Wyckwood House, The Riverfront Playhouse, Endiro Coffee, QT3 Fitness, Heath Holding LLC, JH Real Estate Partners, The Perch, Payton’s Photography, Aurora Historical Society, Aurora Regional Fire Museum, Fox Valley Music Foundation, and Kathryn’s Place.

Aurora Downtown said some of the projects funded by the loans include theater soundproofing at The Riverfront Playhouse, jazz concerts hosted by The Venue at Mundy Park and a safety exhibit at the fire museum.

Most recently, the BAR committee has funded new awnings at La Quinta de los Reyes and The Cotton Seed Creative Exchange and new signage and flooring at AKA Dance.

For more information, visit auroradowntown.org.