Latest news with #SmallBusinessSaturday
Yahoo
3 days ago
- Business
- Yahoo
Arkansas small business recognized by Walmart on National Small Business Month
LITTLE ROCK, Ark. – This month is National Small Business Month, which makes it a perfect time for workers at Fire and Smoke Society to celebrate what they've been doing nationally from right here in the Natural State. The company makes seasonings and rubs for meat and other foods. CEO Brian Taylor said Walmart helped launch the company by putting the product on shelves. Small businesses can capitalize on Small Business Saturday with some planning 'I think the fact that we're manufactured in the U.S. is something that we're super proud of,' Taylor said. On Wednesday, Taylor's company and team was recognized by Walmart during National Small Business Month. Michael Lindsey with Walmart said two-thirds of the products on shelves are either made, grown or assembled in the United States, and over half of all products are made by small businesses. 'It helps Walmart by providing a diversity of suppliers from around the country to put great products on our shelves. That 60% of the products we sell are made by small businesses,' Lindsey said. Small business owners feel more uncertain about the future For Taylor, being able to be a part of that number means a lot. And he's hoping his small business story will rub off onto others. 'A lot of people in Arkansas still don't know we exist,' Taylor said, 'To kind of get that recognition and local leaders here today supporting us was really gratifying.' Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Yahoo
16-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
National Trust for Historic Preservation and American Express Launch Applications for Fifth Year of "Backing Historic Small Restaurants" Grant Program
WASHINGTON, May 16, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Applications are now open to small restaurant owners who qualify for Backing Historic Small Restaurants (BHSR), a grant program from the National Trust for Historic Preservation, supported by American Express, which helps small and independent restaurants preserve their histories while celebrating their cuisines and supporting their local economies. Now in its fifth year, the Backing Historic Small Restaurants program will provide $2.5 million in grants to 50 U.S. historic restaurants. The program has already provided over $5 million over the past four years to 130 restaurant owners in all 50 states, who have been impacted by economic hardship or disasters. This initiative is part of America Express' larger "Backing Small" grants program which includes its Backing International Small Restaurants program, also launching today. Together, the "Backing Small" restaurant grant programs will provide $3.95 million in funding and other resources in 2025 to restaurants around the world. "American Express is proud to back local champions who strengthen their communities, and that includes many small and independent restaurants," said Madge Thomas, Head of Corporate Sustainability and President, American Express Foundation. "Food brings people together and builds community. We aim to offer restaurants the support they need to expand, innovate, update their spaces, and improve operations, so they continue to grow and bring vitality to neighborhoods across the U.S and around the world." "American Express is an invaluable partner to the National Trust as together we work to strengthen neighborhoods across the country by supporting these small businesses that bring people together," said Carol Quillen, President and CEO of the National Trust for Historic Preservation. Grantees from past years say the funding helped them make much needed infrastructure changes. Stephen Reeve, a 2024 Backing Historic Small Restaurants winner, runs New York Café in Ketchikan, Alaska — the state's longest operating restaurant, which adventurer Tony Ohashi built more than 120 years ago. The grant helped Stephen restore key elements of the building façade and better document the café's history with historic signage. "We want to honor the families that created the New York Café and much more of the surrounding historic Stedman-Thomas neighborhood," Reeve said. Applications are open today and close on May 30. Restaurant owners can apply for the grant program here. Community members can also nominate their favorite restaurant here. ABOUT AMERICAN EXPRESS "BACKING SMALL" INITIATIVES American Express launched Backing Historic Small Restaurants, and its sister program Backing International Small Restaurants, when many restaurants were forced to close their doors during the pandemic, and expanded the grant support over the years to help small restaurant owners address their evolving needs. As the founder of Small Business Saturday in 2010, American Express has brought communities together by connecting small business owners with local customers when these businesses needed the foot traffic. Since 2020, their grants have supported nearly 5,000 small businesses across six countries and 50 U.S. states, Washington D.C., and Puerto Rico. Learn more about American Express' community impact here. ABOUT THE NATIONAL TRUST FOR HISTORIC PRESERVATION The National Trust for Historic Preservation is a privately-funded nonprofit organization dedicated to helping communities maintain and enhance the power of historic places. Chartered by Congress in 1949 and supported by partners, friends, and champions nationwide, we help preserve the places and stories that make communities unique. Through the stewardship and revitalization of historic sites, we help communities foster economic growth, create healthier environments, and build a stronger, shared sense of civic duty and belonging. Press contact: PR@ View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE National Trust for Historic Preservation Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Yahoo
23-04-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Rock Island's College Hill District plans for future development
Augustana College and the City of Rock Island are teaming up with businesses and citizens to advance mixed-use retail, residential and neighborhood improvements in the College Hill District. They hope to create a more vibrant, walkable and economically dynamic neighborhood that serves Rock Island residents and Augustana students. The Hilltop Community Development Corporation (CDC) is a newly formed initiative to promote growth near the edges of Augustana's campus. A CDC is a nonprofit, community-focused organization that fosters revitalization by investing in housing, small businesses and neighborhood infrastructure. The CDC is part of Augustana's Bold & Boundless Strategic Plan and aligns with the college's commitment to connecting through partnerships, enhancing neighborhood vitality and activating campus edges, as recommended in the Campus Master Plan. The Hilltop CDC has purchased its first property, the former Curry-Out QC restaurant at 1407 30th Street that will be developed for mixed business and residential use. The property is a five-minute walk from the southern edge of Augustana's campus. The building has undergone an environmental review and is scheduled for removal this quarter. The College Hill District was founded in 2011 and is a walkable neighborhood that includes restaurants and businesses such as Fred & Ethel's 50's Antiques, Happy Joe's Pizza and Ice Cream and Kavanaugh's Hilltop Bar & Grill. The district has hosted events including College Hill-o-Ween, Small Business Saturday shopping days, Christmas walks and retro car rallies. 'Augustana is thrilled to join with city and community partners to bolster economic, architectural and community-building initiatives in the College Hill area and to work together to seek solutions to meet the needs of the district,' said Augustana president Andrea Talentino. 'We want to be a strong partner in making Rock Island a valued place to live and work. Augustana is proud to call Rock Island home, and we're proud to unite to create a more vibrant and thriving hub for the benefit of our students and the community.' 'As a community member, it's encouraging to see Augustana stepping up as a thoughtful and engaged neighbor,' said Jeff Rose, a resident of the College Hill District. 'This initiative isn't just about buildings — it's about creating a place where people feel connected, supported and proud to live. The CDC is helping us imagine what's possible for the Hilltop.' 'Augustana has been a wonderful partner for many years, and we're very pleased to join them in this new initiative to bring increased resources, housing and storefronts to the College Hill District,' said Rock Island mayor Mike Thoms. 'We're excited to contribute to future-focused planning for Rock Islanders and the college.' 'The CDC will develop and prioritize projects with an emphasis on serving the College Hill District, including mixed-use redevelopment and attracting small businesses with a focus on food and beverage or retail,' said Kirk Anderson, chief financial officer at Augustana. 'The CDC's projected 2026 operating budget exceeds $90,000 through grants and philanthropic gifts, demonstrating strong early investment in the district's revitalization. We know the investments of the CDC will have a great impact on enhancing Rock Island and our region. These efforts will support job creation, strengthen local businesses and enhance quality of life for residents and students alike.' Anderson said the CDC will work on several goals to redevelop and expand quality housing opportunities, such as Augustana employee rental housing and campus-adjacent housing for Augustana seniors and Rock Island residents. The group also plans neighborhood identity and signage improvements. The college has worked with Rock Island on many projects, including creating a $1.5 million tennis court complex at Lincoln Park at 38th Street and 11th Avenue. The project includes leasing that section of the park to the college for 10 years. Over the next three years, the CDC hopes to create vibrant commercial spaces, improve housing access for residents and students and support Rock Island's growth. 'This is more than a symbolic gesture, it's a real investment in Rock Island's future,' Thoms said. 'With new infrastructure, commercial space and housing in the pipeline, the Hilltop CDC is setting a bold tone for the next chapter of neighborhood growth.' Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Yahoo
23-02-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Community leader and visionary ‘Mister Coral Gables' Mark Trowbridge has died at 56
Mark Trowbridge was known as Mister Coral Gables. 'He was a great connector, and he saw himself as the connector of people in Coral Gables and throughout the community,' Sarah Artecona, Trowbridge's longtime friend said. Trowbridge served in the Coral Gables Chamber of Commerce and led as the CEO and president. He elevated the Chamber's profile, championing small businesses, and spearheading events like Burgerliscious and Small Business Saturday. Under his leadership, the Chamber's revenue grew by over 40%. 'For almost 20 years, he poured his heart and soul into the Chamber, transforming it into one of the most influential business organizations in the state,' said Coral Gables Mayor Vince Lago in a statement. Trowbridge, 56, died on Feb. 21 after having survived multiple myeloma, a form of blood cancer, but having heart complications. 'My heart goes out to all those around the County who were blessed by his fun and loving presence,' Miami-Dade Mayor Daniella Levine Cava said in a statement. 'His legacy will live on with all the businesses and nonprofits he uplifted.' Trowbridge's longtime friend and colleague, Sara Hernandez can't imagine a world without him. 'Mark was just a wonderful man and guided me to the point where I became Chair of the Coral Gables Chamber,' said Hernandez. Hernandez said one of Trowbridge's proudest accomplishments included spearheading Ryder — a major transportation and logistics company — to relocate its headquarters to Coral Gables. Known for his dry humor, quick wit, and straightforward nature, Trowbridge was a respected mentor with a keen eye for talent. Hernandez fondly remembered his love for history. 'He was a big mentor to many people in the city,' said Hernandez. 'He never sugarcoated anything.' 'He was larger than life,' said Artecona, who worked with him on the Chamber. 'He lived life with a passion. He loved his job. He always wanted to make things better.' Whether he was walking down the street or enjoying lunch at one of the many local Gables restaurants, it was impossible to walk more than a few steps without someone greeting him, Artecona said. 'Mark was a force of nature — full of energy, kindness, and an unmatched ability to bring people together,' said Lago. 'His friendship was a gift, and his presence was a source of joy and inspiration.' As he sat down to lunch or strolled through the streets, Mark would often leave with pages of notes — details about people he had met, follow-up conversations, introductions to make, and ways to help others, Artecona said. 'No one loved Coral Gables more than Mark Trowbridge,' said Coral Gables Commissioner Ariel Fernandez in a statement. 'His passion for our business community was unmatched, and his voice carried from South Florida to Tallahassee, always speaking with conviction and heart.' Trowbridge was an avid Florida Gators fan, having graduated from the University of Florida with his Bachelor's and Master of Education degrees in 1990 and 1992. He moved to South Florida eight weeks before Hurricane Andrew struck in August 1992. He was a longtime resident of Miami Springs. He had served as president of the national board for the University of Florida Alumni Association and never missed watching a Gators game. Trowbridge played a key role in Super Bowl LIV in 2020, when the game was played at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, serving as Chair of Recognition and Engagement for the volunteer team. He had consulted on volunteer management and leadership development for organizations like the Orange Bowl Committee, Miami Open, Mayors' Summit of the Americas, and International Pow Wow. Trowbridge also taught Sports Management as an adjunct professor at Barry University and St. Thomas University. 'People loved working with him,' said Artecona. 'He had an enormous personality and a huge sense of humor.' In 2009, Artecona and Trowbridge placed a bet. She is a big fan of the University of Alabama, and that year they went up against the University of Florida. The loser had to perform the winning team's fight song in front of 300 people. That year, Mark lost. Showing good sportsmanship, he draped an Alabama blanket around himself and sang the Alabama fight song at the Chamber breakfast held monthly at the Biltmore. 'Larger than life in the very best ways — great smile, great laugh, great work,' said David Lawrence Jr., chair of The Children's Movement of Florida and a retired publisher of the Miami Herald. 'Touched everything he tackled with joy — the Gables Chamber, public speaking, Junior League, the University of Florida, and more.' Funeral and memorial arrangements have not yet been set. Trowbridge is survived by his mother Mary Lou Trowbridge and sister and brother-in-law Tracy Trowbridge Newman and Stan Newman and their sons Ben and Hunter, his nephew Taylor Trowbridge, Taylor's wife Diana Trowbridge, and his sister-in-law Karen Trowbridge. Donations may made in Trowbridge's honor to the New World Schools of the Arts, The Coral Gables Chamber of Commerce Foundation, The Children's Trust and SAVE Dade. Fernandez said he has asked for City Hall to be lit in Burgundy, the color of Multiple Myeloma Awareness, for the week of Feb. 24. 'He left behind a universe of friends,' said Artecona.
Miami Herald
22-02-2025
- Business
- Miami Herald
Community leader and visionary, ‘Mister Coral Gables' Mark Trowbridge has died at 56
Mark Trowbridge was known as Mister Coral Gables. 'He was a great connector, and he saw himself as the connector of people in Coral Gables and throughout the community,' Sarah Artecona, Trowbridge's longtime friend. Trowbridge served in the Coral Gables Chamber of Commerce and led as the CEO and president. He elevated the Chamber's profile, championing small businesses, and spearheading events like Burgerliscious and Small Business Saturday. Under his leadership, the Chamber's revenue grew by over 40%. 'For almost 20 years, he poured his heart and soul into the Chamber, transforming it into one of the most influential business organizations in the state,' said Coral Gables Mayor Vince Lago in a statement. Trowbridge, 56, died on Feb. 21 after having survived multiple myeloma, a form of blood cancer, but having heart complications. 'My heart goes out to all those around the County who were blessed by his fun and loving presence,' Miami-Dade Mayor Daniella Levine Cava said in a statement. 'His legacy will live on with all the businesses and nonprofits he uplifted.' 'Enormous personality' 'He was larger than life,' said Artecona, who worked with him on the Chamber. 'He lived life with a passion. He loved his job. He always wanted to make things better.' Whether he was walking down the street or enjoying lunch at one of the many local Gables restaurants, it was impossible to walk more than a few steps without someone greeting him, Artecona said. 'Mark was a force of nature — full of energy, kindness, and an unmatched ability to bring people together,' said Lago. 'His friendship was a gift, and his presence was a source of joy and inspiration.' As he sat down to lunch or strolled through the streets, Mark would often leave with pages of notes — details about people he had met, follow-up conversations, introductions to make, and ways to help others, Artecona said. 'No one loved Coral Gables more than Mark Trowbridge,' said Coral Gables Commissioner Ariel Fernandez in a statement. 'His passion for our business community was unmatched, and his voice carried from South Florida to Tallahassee, always speaking with conviction and heart.' Forever a Florida Gator Trowbridge was an avid Florida Gators fan, having graduated from the University of Florida with his Bachelor's and Master of Education degrees in 1990 and 1992. He moved to South Florida eight weeks before Hurricane Andrew struck in August 1992. He was a longtime resident of Miami Springs. He had served as president of the national board for the University of Florida Alumni Association and never missed watching a Gators game. Trowbridge played a key role in Super Bowl LIV in 2020, when the game was played at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, serving as Chair of Recognition and Engagement for the volunteer team. He had consulted on volunteer management and leadership development for organizations like the Orange Bowl Committee, Miami Open, Mayors' Summit of the Americas, and International Pow Wow. Trowbridge also taught Sports Management as an adjunct professor at Barry University and St. Thomas University. 'People loved working with him,' said Artecona. 'He had an enormous personality and a huge sense of humor.' In 2009, Artecona and Trowbridge placed a bet. She is a big fan of the University of Alabama, and that year they went up against the University of Florida. The loser had to perform the winning team's fight song in front of 300 people. That year, Mark lost. Showing good sportsmanship, he draped an Alabama blanket around himself and sang the Alabama fight song at the Chamber breakfast held monthly at the Biltmore. 'Larger than life in the very best ways — great smile, great laugh, great work,' said David Lawrence Jr., chair of The Children's Movement of Florida and a retired publisher of the Miami Herald. 'Touched everything he tackled with joy — the Gables Chamber, public speaking, Junior League, the University of Florida, and more.' Survivors Funeral and memorial arrangements have not yet been set. Trowbridge is survived by his mother Mary Lou Trowbridge and sister and brother-in-law Tracy Trowbridge Newman and Stan Newman and their sons Ben and Hunter, his nephew Taylor Trowbridge, Taylor's wife Diana Trowbridge, and his sister-in-law Karen Trowbridge. Fernandez said he has asked for City Hall to be lit in Burgundy, the color of Multiple Myeloma Awareness, for the week of Feb. 24. 'He left behind a universe of friends,' said Artecona.
