New initiative aims to help businesses in Chattanooga neighborhoods

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) — The City of Chattanooga found a way to help business owners who have successful track records in areas that have seen some struggles.

Darnell Moss looked at ceiling damage to his business. He owns Moss’ Place. It’s been around for 19 years.

Moss plans to participate in the City’s new Small Business Corridor program, so he can fix his roof.

“It helps me a lot, because the capital that I do have, I could do it, but if I could get some assistance, there are some other things that I want to do around,” Moss said.

Mayor Andy Berke stopped by Moss’ Place to announce the grant initiative. He says this is one more tool to help established businesses in different areas like MLK Boulevard, Alton Park and Tunnel Boulevard.

“There are really critical corridors in neighborhoods where we want to see businesses grow and when they grow not just downtown, but in neighborhoods that allows people to walk to work and bike to work to see opportunity in their own neighbor hood and that is a big thing in our community,” Mayor Berke said.

There is $500,000 in funding for the initiative. Mayor Berke says more funds can be available in the future. Business owners who qualify can borrow up to $25,000.

“This is not a lifesaver, where someone is about to go under and we are just giving them money in hopes of something happening. This is about investing in proven businesses,” Mayor Berke said.

As for Moss, he is thankful for this program and enjoys being a business owner in the community.

“It is been a blessing to me and I have been happy to do the things that I am doing,” Moss said.

Next Monday, Mayor Berke will discuss affordable housing, which is his the third initiative in his building stronger neighborhoods strategy.