Local business opens brick-and-mortar after receiving loan assistance – Kansas City, Missouri

Kansas City, Missouri — When the subway begins to reopen, new small businesses will begin to move. Shop Local KC, an extension of the owner’s other passion project, the Strawberry Swing Indie Craft Fair, hosted a soft opening in-store on Friday.

Owner Katie Mabley van Dieren said, “I think it’s really great, but at the same time it feels a little scary.” “Don’t give up. If I gave up, I wouldn’t have this store.” It was. “

She said the opening time was no better, but like many other small businesses during the pandemic, success was not easy.

She said she plans to use her new business venture to support other local stores.

“Now, especially after the pandemic, we found that local shopping was very important. We saw restaurants close and all businesses closed. We have to support them. No, “said Mabry van Dieren.

She said her dream couldn’t have come true without the help of Alt-Cap and its microloan program.

“So I contacted Alt-Cap because you wanted to buy all the items from the manufacturer in advance, not commissions or consignments that you don’t pay in advance. I’m all these women and men. I wanted to pay the small business right away, “she said.

Davin Gordon, director of business development at Alt-Cap, said such a soft open reminded local businesses of the potential for rebounds.

However, many will continue to struggle with the Paycheck Protection Program closing this portal last week. Federal PPP loans have helped 8.5 million SMEs by providing licensed loans.

Gordon said that while it may seem like a difficult battle, there are always options.

“Microloans via Alt-Cap using the Regional Relief Fund for Coronavirus Diseases will be available, many banks have set credit lines, and around the government for additional stimulus. There are some discussions and usually there is a one-time grant opportunity, “he said.

Alt-Cap Micro Loan Program It will resume this summer. Gordon and his staff will also follow up and provide consulting on PPP exemptions for those who receive these loans.

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