Cocina on the Square receives $15K grant

Cocina On The Square in Athens was recently awarded a grant of $15,000 through the Community First Accelerate Grants for Small Business program.

The Federal Home Loan Bank of Chicago offers grants of up to $30,000 to eligible small businesses to advance economic opportunity in the communities it serves.

Cocina On The Square, LLC has been part of the Athens community since 2019 and is a deli/restaurant/catering business serving American and authentic Mexican cuisine. Cocina On The Square is the only business in the area offering deli and catering services along with Mexican cuisine.

Grant funds will be used to renovate its layout and build additions that will create a more efficient work space and a more dynamic experience for the community.

“Opportunities to get additional funds to improve downtown businesses like the Community First Accelerate Grants is a gift to those of us dedicated to serving and employing in smaller communities,” said Manuela Lira, co-owner of Cocina On The Square. “We can often provide a spark to the downtown district and create a sense of community by providing a space for community members to gather. Using the grant funds, we can build a new cooler/storage area and add an outdoor seating area, which would be the first and only in the community.”

Through FHLBank Chicago’s member institutions, like Forward Bank, Accelerate-Grants assist the growth and development of small businesses in Illinois and Wisconsin. All grant recipients are small businesses that make a difference in their community, and funds are intended for the following purposes:

■ The purchase or improvement of property

■ The purchase of machinery, tools or equipment

■ The purchase of inventory, materials, or supplies

■ Workforce development or training

■ New or upgraded technology “Forward has chosen Cocina On The Square as they exude everything within the definition of a proud small business owner,” stated Jessica Frahm, VP/commercial lender at Forward Bank. “They strive every day to find new and innovative ways to serve their customers and the community from daily specials to pop-up food tent events.”

For more information on Accelerate Grants and eligibility, visit www.fhlbc.com Forward Bank currently has offices in Athens, Colby, Dorchester, Greenwood, Marshfield, Medford, Park Falls, Phillips, Rib Lake, Stanley, St. Germain, Thorp, Three Lakes, and Withee.

ON THE SQUARE - The owners of Cocina On The Square in Athens, Manuela Lira, left and Joe Valdez, Jr., right, pose for a picture with Jessica Frahm, vice president of Forward Bank, which chose the deli and catering business to receive a $15,000 grant.

SUBMITTED PHOTO