MANISTIQUE, Mich. (WZMQ) – A Schoolcraft County credit union is helping small businesses improve and expand their services.
Earlier this year, Limestone Federal Credit Union (FCU) became a member of the Federal Home Loan (FHL) Bank of Indianapolis.
“They are one of eleven regional banks that provide liquidity sources and keep money moving for things like business and mortgage lending,” explained Limestone CEO Jennifer Watson.
The FHL Bank has awarded $1,009,561 in Elevate Small Business grants to 53 Indiana and Michigan businesses in 2024. This month, The Grind Coffee House in Manistique became the first business to receive an Elevate Small Business grant through Limestone Federal Credit Union.
“Through coffee, we really focus on mental health, bringing people together, and providing a level of service to the community,” said Val Demars, a barista at The Grind.
The Grind Coffee House received $19,693, which will be used to purchase a third espresso machine, improve seating, and update the workspace layout.
“We’re going to reroute from behind the bar to give us some more wiggle room and get some extra work done,” Demars said. “The third machine will allow us to be more efficient, serve extra people, and help with those rushes and the long lines.”
In 2017, Limestone Federal Credit Union partnered with Manistique Area Schools to open The Grind Coffee House, which then operated as a work-study program. Watson says Limestone FCU was thrilled to have such an important local business receive this funding.
“It was really exciting for us,” she said. “This was actually our building until 2022, when we sold the business to the current owner, Hali Holt, who is also a Manistique alum. This has really come full circle for us.”
Elevate Small Business grants are awarded based on feasibility and anticipated community impact. With applications opening again in January, Limestone FCU encourages business owners to consider ways the grant could benefit them.
“This is really a great opportunity for businesses to gain some capital or investment in the business, to participate in workforce development, or to make capital improvements, ” Watson said. “It’s really about providing support to Main Street America.”
The Elevate Small Business grant is open to all for-profit businesses in Indiana and Michigan with an annual revenue of less than $1 million. For details on the Federal Home Loan Bank of Indianapolis and applying for an Elevate Small Business grant, visit fhlbi.com.
To contact Limestone Federal Credit Union about 2025 Elevate Small Business grant opportunities, call (906) 341-5866 or visit the credit union at 131 River Street during business hours. Visit limestonefederal.com to learn about other services available through Limestone FCU.
The Grind Coffee House is located at 111 River Street and is open Monday through Saturday from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. and Sundays from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. For more information on the shop, visit The Grind’s website or Facebook page.
