Three Peoria businesses, including a long-awaited South Side grocery store, have been selected to receive funding from a $10 million statewide grant program aimed at supporting small businesses and fostering economic growth. The grants, totaling $245,000 each for the selected Peoria enterprises, are part of Governor JB Pritzker’s initiative to empower entrepreneurs and create jobs across Illinois.
Key Takeaways
- CJ Harvest Supermarket, Bright Kitchen Strategies, and Gilkesson Mortuary and Cremation Life Center are the Peoria recipients.
- The grants aim to support businesses owned by historically underrepresented groups.
- CJ Harvest Supermarket is set to open on Western Avenue, addressing a critical food desert on Peoria’s South Side.
Revitalizing the South Side with CJ Harvest Supermarket
The CJ Harvest Supermarket is poised to open its doors in the coming months at the former Aldi and Save-A-Lot location on Western Avenue. This development is particularly significant as it aims to alleviate a food desert within the 61605 ZIP code, an area that has been without a full-service grocery store since Kroger closed its Harmon Highway location in 2018. The project, spearheaded by Chuck Brown who purchased the building in 2021, has been in development for approximately four years. This latest grant follows a substantial $1.7 million in state funding received last year. Brown had previously aimed for a September opening, but faced delays due to supply chain issues and other challenges.
Supporting Diverse Businesses with State Funding
Governor Pritzker highlighted the crucial role of small businesses in the state’s economy, stating, "From corner stores to cafes to burgeoning manufacturers, small businesses are the job creators at the heart of the Illinois economy and are the pride of our communities." The Small Business Capital and Infrastructure Grant Program specifically targets businesses owned by historically underrepresented groups, fostering job creation and local economic development.
In addition to CJ Harvest Supermarket, two other Peoria businesses were awarded grants:
- Bright Kitchen Strategies: Founded by Joshua Lanning, this startup operates several popular eateries, including BrightSide Kitchen, BrightBelly Ramen, and BrightBird Chicken Sandwich Shop.
- Gilkesson Mortuary and Cremation Life Center: Opened earlier this year by James and Cynthia Gilkesson on West McClure Avenue, this business provides essential services to the community.
Each of these businesses will receive $245,000 to support their operations and growth, contributing to the vibrant economic landscape of Peoria.
