The Greater Chestertown Initiative’s “Open for Business in Chestertown” program announced three recipients of “kickstarter” funding for new or expanding businesses in downtown Chestertown.
Bill and Andrew Short of Eastern Interiors; Chris Tilghman of SheShe on High; Carla Massoni and Lani Seikaly of the Greater Chestertown Initiative; and Dale Hornstein and Sharon Puckett of Tiny Tots Boutique
Chosen to receive funding were Chris Tilghman for SheShe on High; Sharon Puckett & Dale Hornstein for Tiny Tots Boutique; and Bill & Andrew Short for Eastern Interiors.
the Open for Business program invites entrepreneurs to submit requests for funding. Awards are made in the form of matching funds and virtually interest free loans. The program is supported by the non-profit SFW Foundation, created to fund these business incentives.
The GCI is an informal and independent coalition of leaders of organizations both non-profit and for-profit, community associations and government agencies, Washington College and other interested groups and individuals. Among its projects have been supporting the town’s application for an Arts & Entertainment District designation from the Maryland State Arts Council,creating additional tourist events and additional Saturday and Sunday activities for First Friday weekends.
I’m curious about what the criteria were for choosing the recipients of these awards. I would like to see support for businesses designed to meet the needs of Chestertown residents and to encourage young people and families to stay in town, instead of solely high end and tourist-focused businesses. How nice it would be if regular folks who live I need Chestertown could get their day to day shopping and service needs met in a vibrant downtown business district.