Orlando Business Owner Receives $25,000 Grant From MEBA

Orlando restaurant Nikki’s Place, Inc., owned by Elaine and Nick Aiken, couldn't be happier with the recent grant they received from The Minority/Women Entrepreneur Business Assistance (MEBA) Program. The program has been helping attract more minority-owned businesses to the area since 2006.


Qualifications

To qualify for the MEBA program, applicants must own a for-profit small business as defined by the U.S. Small Business Administration. It can be a new business or existing business that is expanding. The business must be located within the target area. The MEBA Program Target Area is from West Colonial Drive, South Westmoreland Drive, West Gore Street and Interstate-4.

How it works

Grants are awarded up to $40,000 to eligible retail and service businesses and can be used for new equipment, marketing, or start-up costs. The grants work like a deferred, no-interest loan that is forgiven after three years, providing the business owner remains in compliance with the terms and conditions of their agreement with the City.

Since the MEBA program began in 2006, it has awarded over $520,000 to small businesses in the Parramore neighborhood located in downtown Orlando.

Find out how to apply by visiting bungalower.com/2015/12/nikkis-place-gets-25000-minoritywomen-business-assistance-program/