Community

Vin-Tiques receives grant

Scott Benton, left, Sandy Helton

Special to Atmore News

On October 6, Main Street America and American Express announced the fourth round of recipients for the Inclusive Backing Grant Program. Vin-Tiques in Atmore was among the winners.
The program, presented by American Express, provides grants of $5,000 to small business owners who have been impacted by the pandemic recover and thrive. This round awarded 120 small business owners from across the nation.
Funds can be used towards critical needs such as physical and digital improvements, new equipment, technology, and training to support their financial recovery and growth.
This program marks the latest effort in American Express’ “Backing Small” initiative to provide financial support and resources to underrepresented and economically vulnerable small business owners. Other Backing Small programs include the Coalition to Back Black Businesses and Backing Historic Small Restaurants. Backing Small complements American Express’ Shop Small, a global year-round movement to spotlight small, independent businesses.
In partnership with HIAS, Oweesta Corporation , Hispanic Federation, and the National LGBT Chamber of Commerce, grantees were selected based on feasibility of project implementation; how the grant would help improve the viability of the business; and the extent to which the grant will help address an acute business need or help a business owner implement innovative solutions to address COVID-19-related challenges.