The All in for Alpena Small Business Relief Grant committee has announced the program raised over $45,000 from 150 donors to support small businesses impacted by COVID-19. The committee received 32 applications. All applicants received an award of varying amounts.

The applicants were not identified.

“We extend our gratitude to the 150 donors that contributed to All in for Alpena,” said Jennifer Calery, program director. “Thanks to your support, 32 businesses in our community will receive much-needed funding to cover expenses incurred during the shutdown and as they transition to reopening.”

All in for Alpena grants will be used to cover typical operating expenses, COVID-19 related expenses such as personal protective equipment, and to provide cash flow to stabilize businesses as they transition to reopening.

“Target (Alpena) played a small role in this process and is grateful for the leadership Jennifer and her nonprofit committee demonstrated in helping the many small businesses in our community,” said Mike Mahler, Target Alpena director of economic development. “I would also like to thank the 150 donors that helped to preserve the 243 jobs represented by these grant recipients. Thank you to the team at the Community Foundation for Northeast Michigan (CFNEM) for their support in making all of this happen. This entire process further demonstrates why Alpena is such a great community — always willing to step up and help when there is a need.”

The All in for Alpena Small Business Relief Grant committee was established from several Alpena-based nonprofit organizations that volunteered their time to manage the application and award process to give back to the businesses that have supported them throughout the years.

“This program provided an opportunity for our community to come together to recognize local businesses for the economic and cultural value they bring to Alpena.” said Calery. “I am proud of the work the committee members put in to manage and administer this program. Our success would not have been possible without the widespread support we received from so many businesses and individuals.”

About the All in for Alpena Small Business Relief Grant Committee

The All in for Alpena Small Business Relief Grant committee was established for the sole purpose of funding and administering a Small Business Relief Grant Program to support Alpena businesses hardest hit by COVID-19. Find more information at allinforalpena.com

About Target Alpena

Founded in 1989, Target Alpena Development Corporation is a 501(c)3 nonprofit corporation that was established for economic development purposes in the City of Alpena and Alpena County. Target Alpena is supported entirely by voluntary contributions from financial institutions, businesses, individuals, governmental entities, foundation, utilities, and grants.