News Summary
Cleveland Mayor Justin M. Bibb has announced a $1.9 million investment aimed at revitalizing small businesses on the Southeast Side. This funding, part of the Southeast Side Commercial Corridor Program, targets economic growth and community renewal efforts. The initiative includes support for 29 projects that range from storefront improvements to revitalizing public spaces, aiming to bolster economic activity and local job opportunities.
Cleveland
Cleveland Mayor Justin M. Bibb has announced a significant investment of $1.9 million dedicated to small businesses on the city’s Southeast Side. This funding, part of the Southeast Side Commercial Corridor Program, is intended to foster economic growth and invigorate community renewal efforts.
Mayor Bibb referred to the Southeast Side as a “crown jewel” of Cleveland, highlighting the area’s potential and cultural resilience amidst challenges of disinvestment. The financial allocation is aimed at helping small businesses restore local pride, create job opportunities, and ensure long-term prosperity for the community.
The Southeast Side Commercial Corridor Program was relaunched in September 2025 by the Department of Economic Development. The investment will assist in various projects, including storefront improvements, vacant property acquisition, enhancements to public spaces, and the activation of community spaces. Director of Economic Development Joevrose Small indicated that the program aims to serve as a model for achieving equitable economic development across the city.
A total of $1,909,341.06 has been allocated to fund 29 projects situated along key thoroughfares such as Lee Road, Kinsman Road, Miles Avenue, and Union Avenue. Recipients of the funding include a diverse range of businesses, including early learning centers, health service providers, restaurants, and barbershops.
Among the businesses awarded is Mount Pleasant Bar-B-Q, established in 1942, which received approximately $93,000. The owner plans to utilize this funding for significant enhancements, including new signage, improved lighting, and interior renovations. The investment represents an opportunity for business owners to make large-scale improvements simultaneously.
Business owners looking for additional resources can access them through the City of Cleveland Economic Development website at makeitincleveland.org.
Background Context
The Southeast Side of Cleveland has historically faced challenges related to disinvestment and economic decline. However, community leaders and local government are recognizing its potential for revitalization. Efforts like the Southeast Side Commercial Corridor Program demonstrate a commitment to fostering business growth and enhancing the local economy. This initiative is part of a broader strategy aimed at supporting small businesses, which are essential to the economic fabric of the community.
The backing provided by this investment is expected to result in substantial improvements to the local business landscape and pave the way for further development in the years to come. By supporting small businesses, the city hopes to bolster economic activity, reduce unemployment, and improve overall living conditions in the Southeast Side.
As these improvements take shape, there is an anticipated ripple effect of increased foot traffic, consumer spending, and job opportunities, further reinforcing the economic infrastructure of the area.
This investment, along with similar initiatives across the city, underscores the importance of dedicated efforts towards revitalization and equitable development, targeting areas in need of growth and support.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Cleveland Invests $1.9 Million in Small Businesses
Ohio House Passes Bipartisan Marijuana Reform Bill
Cleveland Announces $1.9 Million Investment in Small Businesses
Cleveland at the Center of Controversy Over THC Ban
Cleveland Approves East Stokes Block Skyscraper Construction
CentroVilla25 Opens as New Latino Market in Cleveland
Clifford Construction Plans Expansion Amid Local Growth
Cleveland Professionals Find New Networking Opportunities in Saunas
Ohio Independent Music Venues Struggle Post-Pandemic
Hilliard, Ohio Welcomes Massive Data Center Investment
Additional Resources
- Spectrum News 1
- WKYC
- Crain’s Cleveland
- Wikipedia: Cleveland
- Google Search: Cleveland small business growth
Author: STAFF HERE CLEVELAND WRITER
The CLEVELAND STAFF WRITER represents the seasoned team at HERECleveland.com, your premier source for actionable local news and information in Cleveland, Cuyahoga County, and beyond, delivering "news you can use" with in-depth coverage of product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news impacting the region—backed by years of expert reporting and robust community input, including local press releases and business updates, while providing top reporting on high-profile events like the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductions, Cleveland International Film Festival, and holiday parades, alongside key organizations such as the Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland Orchestra, and Great Lakes Science Center, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and healthcare like Sherwin-Williams and University Hospitals, and as part of the broader HERE network including HEREDayton.com, offering comprehensive, credible insights into Ohio's vibrant landscape. HERE Cleveland HERE Dayton
