The Watseka Community Renewal group has announced recipients of its inaugural Small Business Grant program. Each business has been awarded a $1,000 grant to support physical improvements, operational upgrades, and community-facing enhancements.  (Watseka Community Renewal (WCR) is a non-profit organization dedicated to revitalization and economic development in Watseka).

The 2026 grant winners named: 
• Griswold Feed, • Center Street Productions, • The Head Quarters, • Above Family Grooming, • Spleodar Follaine.

These local establishments represent the backbone of the Watseka economy, according to the WCR. Small businesses are the heartbeat of the community— providing unique character to the town, create local jobs, and ensure that the economic health of the town remains vibrant and self-sustaining.

A key highlight of this grant cycle is the “multiplier effect” within the local economy. In many cases, these grant winners are utilizing local contractors and vendors to complete their projects. By choosing local partners for their improvements, the reach of each $1,000 grant extends far beyond a single business, circulating funds back into the hands of other Watseka residents and tradespeople.

94.1 WGFA