The Gustine Downtown Business Association (GDBA) is spreading holiday cheer by supporting local businesses with its annual Small Business Grants program. This year, the Association has awarded grants to seven businesses, funding projects that aim to enhance their visibility, foster community engagement, and improve their offerings to customers.
WhichCraft Taproom, known for its craft beer selections and welcoming atmosphere, will receive a brand-new flag to help new customers locate their downtown location with ease.
L&E Cafe, a beloved spot for coffee and conversation, has been awarded three new bistro seating combos to create a charming outdoor seating area. This addition will allow customers to enjoy their beverages and meals outdoors while drawing the attention of passersby on Gustine’s Main Street.
Sovanna’s Donuts, a favorite stop for sweet treats and morning coffee, will be getting a banner flag to highlight their business and attract more visitors.
MG Bakery, known for its delicious baked goods and cozy atmosphere, will also receive a flag to enhance their visibility and draw in more customers to enjoy their offerings.
“We’re so excited to receive this grant and the support from the Gustine Downtown Business Association,” said Gladis Godínez, from MG Bakery. “This new banner will help us reach even more people, and it means the world to us to be part of such a supportive community.”
Coast Hardware will be receiving a banner/flag to promote their business and will also host a birdhouse-building event, where families can come together to build birdhouses in a fun, creative atmosphere. The date for this family-friendly event is still to be determined.
Lee’s Floral, a cherished flower shop known for its stunning arrangements, will receive a flag to highlight their business and attract more foot traffic to their shop.
Cali Form Fitness, a health and wellness center, will use its grant to host an open house event to welcome community members, showcase its facilities, and promote fitness. The event’s date will be determined.
The Small Business Grants program is part of the GDBA’s ongoing effort to support and uplift local businesses, especially during the holiday season. These special grant gifts are timed to coincide with Small Business Saturday, a day dedicated to encouraging residents to shop local and support small businesses in their community.
This year’s grants program has been made even more impactful thanks to the GDBA’s membership in the Country Music Association Industry Membership, which has provided opportunities to grow through education and networking. “Thanks to this membership, we’ve not only expanded our knowledge but also connected with incredible business leaders who have stepped up as angel donors for this year’s grants,” said GDBA Vice President Jose Flores. “Their generosity has allowed us to give more grants this year than ever before, ensuring that our small businesses thrive.”
The program is further supported by local stakeholders, including Gustine City Council candidate Mark Melville and new business member Rubio Threads, who contributed to this year’s grants.
“Supporting our downtown businesses is essential to maintaining a vibrant community,” said Melville. “By working together and sponsoring initiatives like these grants, we show our businesses that we care for them and are committed to their success.”
Joe Garcia, co-owner of WhichCraft Taproom, expressed his gratitude for the grant and the Association’s support. “Receiving this grant means a lot to us,” Garcia said. “The GDBA’s support helps small businesses like ours thrive, and we’re excited to see new customers find us with the help of our new banner.”
“The Holiday Small Business Grants are about more than just funding; they’re about investing in our downtown businesses and helping them grow and thrive,” added Flores. “Small Business Saturday is the perfect opportunity for our community to see the impact of these grants and continue supporting our local businesses.”
The GDBA encourages everyone to shop local and support Gustine’s small businesses not only on Small Business Saturday but throughout the holiday season. By partnering with local businesses and community members, the GDBA continues to foster growth, collaboration, and a vibrant downtown experience for all. Stay tuned for updates on Coast Hardware’s birdhouse-building event, Cali Form Fitness’s open house, and other community celebrations as the holiday season unfolds.
