Local Businesses Compete for Grants

For Dennis and Donna Sucilsky, $250,000 could go a long way. The couple, who make and sell their from their East Setauket headquarters, could better promote their product in ways their current budget doesn't facilitate.

"We have a proven product," Donna Sucilsky said. "What has changed is the marketplace and how customers are acquired."

The Sucilskys' Tavern Puzzle Collection is one of a handful of local businesses are vying for a $250,000 grant via the "Mission: Small Business" competition, which is sponsored by Chase and LivingSocial. Twelve grants of $250,000 will be awarded to small businesses across the country.

Donna Sucilsky said winning such a grant would "increase sales, keep the business growing, and allow us to offer more jobs."

Among other local small businesses in the running are , , , , and . Businesses that grab enough votes in the initial round will move on to the next round, in which a panel of business experts will choose 12 winners.

To support your local businesses, visit https://www.missionsmallbusiness.com/ and search by state and city. Voting ends June 30 at 11:59 p.m.