News Summary
Cleveland Mayor Justin M. Bibb has unveiled a $1.9 million investment in local businesses through the Southeast Side Commercial Corridor Program, aimed at revitalizing the community and boosting the economy. Known as the Southeast Side Promise, this initiative targets infrastructure improvements, vacant property stabilization, and supports various local enterprises. With 29 projects funded, this investment signifies a commitment to equitable economic growth in historically disinvested areas of the city.
Cleveland Announces $1.9 Million Investment in Small Businesses
Cleveland Mayor Justin M. Bibb has unveiled a $1.9 million investment in local businesses through the Southeast Side Commercial Corridor Program. This initiative, known as the Southeast Side Promise, is designed to stimulate investment, boost the economy, and revitalize the community on Cleveland’s Southeast Side, an area described as “one of our city’s crown jewels.”
The Southeast Side has historically faced challenges related to disinvestment, yet it showcases significant potential, resilience, and cultural richness. The program was officially relaunched in September 2025 by Cleveland’s Department of Economic Development to address these longstanding issues.
Program Details and Funding Allocation
The allocated funding will support various improvements including storefront enhancements, white boxing, acquisition and stabilization of vacant properties, and public realm improvements. A total of 29 projects have received funding as part of this initiative, with geographical coverage along Lee Road, Kinsman Road, Miles Avenue, and Union Avenue.
The total grant awarded through this program amounts to $1,909,341.06, aimed at fostering a range of businesses including early learning centers, health providers, restaurants, and barbershops. The maximum individual grant award is capped at $99,999.
Notable recipients of these grants include Mt. Pleasant Bar-B-Q, which will benefit from $93,415.50, and Kaba’s African Market Inc., which has been awarded $24,110. Other recipients include Mass Orthopedic LLC and Deja Vu Salon/Barber Inc., among others.
Goals of the Southeast Side Promise
This program’s objective is to reverse more than three decades of economic disinvestment in the region. The funds derive from a $5 million allocation under the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), which was initially set aside for the redevelopment of Southeast Side businesses in 2023.
Plans include enhancing community spaces and activating long-term vacant properties to create a more vibrant economic landscape. The investment reflects a commitment to equitable economic development, as articulated by Joevrose Small, the Director of Economic Development.
The anticipated benefits of the funding extend beyond financial assistance; local business leaders express optimism that the investments will also boost worker morale and instill greater community pride. The disbursement of the funds is expected to be completed by the end of 2025, albeit some projects may encounter delays due to zoning and permitting processes.
Community Impact and Historical Context
This investment represents a crucial step towards addressing the challenges faced by small businesses in the Southeast Side of Cleveland, reinforcing the city’s commitment to support areas that have historically experienced long-standing economic difficulties. The Southeast Side Promise aims to transform the area by fostering local entrepreneurship and enhancing the overall quality of life for its residents.
The initiative is part of a broader strategy by the city of Cleveland to prioritize and direct resources to communities that need them the most, ensuring that economic growth is inclusive and benefits diverse segments of the population.
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Additional Resources
- Crain’s Cleveland: Cleveland Awards $1.9 Million Grants
- WKYC: Cleveland Invests Nearly $2 Million in Local Businesses
- Cleveland Magazine: Locally Spruced in Legacy Village
- Wikipedia: Cleveland
- Google Search: Southeast Side Promise
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