File photo of downtown Lethbridge (Lethbridge News Now)

By Justin Goulet

New Chamber-led initiative to raise funds for local business grant

Jun 30, 2020 | 11:00 AM

LETHBRIDGE, AB – The Lethbridge Chamber of Commerce has teamed with two local groups to help out area businesses impacted by COVID-19.

With the assistance of Fully Promoted and Inspire Marketing & Media, t-shirts branded with the slogan “Won’t Blow Over” will be sold to benefit the regional business sector.

The shirts will retail for $20 per youth and $25 per adult, with the proceeds directed to creating a new fund that will distribute grants – not loans – to local businesses.

“Small businesses are the foundation of our community and our economy,” said the Chamber’s executive officer Cyndi Vos.

“The impact of COVID-19 has left many businesses needing resources and relief. This initiative will provide $1,000 supplemental cash grants to help as many businesses as possible meet their most pressing needs.”

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An ad-hoc committee has been formed to select a recipient for every $1,000 received.

“I have heard several stories from friends and colleagues that they just missed the qualification for government aide, and I hate to see these folks fall through the cracks,” said the owner and partner of Fully Promoted, Kim Peters.

Applications for the grants will open on Wednesday, July 1.

Chamber members wishing to enter will have to submit a biography explaining how they have been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, along with a description of how the funds will be used.

“It’s been tough on our businesses and this initiative is one way to show our business community that we are here to support them and do what we can to help,” said Janelle Wensley, the owner of Inspire Marketing & Media.

Grant applications will be accepted until September 19. Those selected to receive a grant will be announced the Chamber of Commerce’s Business of the Year Awards in October.

More details on the campaign can be found here, and anyone wishing to order a shirt can do so here.