Four Downtown Jersey City businesses have received five-figures each from the New Jersey Economic Development Authority’s (NJEDA) Small Business Improvement Grant.
By John Heinis/Hudson County View
Two Boots Pizza, located on 133 Newark Ave. received $12,560.66 through the program, which is part which is part of the NJEDA’s Main Street suite of products created in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, offers reimbursement costs associated with making building improvements or purchasing new furniture, fixtures, and equipment.
With this funding, Two Boots was able to update the cabinetry and plumbing to add a self-service soda fountain, as well as a small pizza oven for staff to heat up individual slices.
“It was great to get the support of the New Jersey Economic Development Authority. The restaurant business is difficult under the best of circumstances, and the financial help was invaluable,” owner Aaron Morrill said in a statement.
Additionally, Fitness Factory Gym, located at 525 Washington Blvd., secured $48,566.12 through the NJEDA’s Small Business Improvement grant.
With this funding, Fitness Factory was able to make several improvements, including:
• Repurposing a room that was originally used for spin classes in a functional training room with turf.
• Adding specialized lighting throughout the space.
• Added turf to an underutilized space at the front of the gym to be used as a stretching and recovery section, with recovery accessories available.
• Purchased new, more specialized equipment that members have been requesting over the years.
“The NJEDA Small Business Improvement Grant couldn’t have come at a better time for our business,” began gym Co-owner Nick Kabobjian.
“We’re finally starting to get back on our feet post-Covid and this gave us the financial flexibility to be able to improve our service to our members and grow our customer base. This also gives the ability to continue to reinvest in the months and years to come.”
Hudson River Imaging, an advanced diagnostic imaging center at 550 Newark Ave. offering MRIs, CT Scans, and Mammograms, received $34,364.20 in state grant money.
With this funding, Hudson River Imaging was able to redo their floors and paint the walls, which helped modernized the business.
Finally The Milkshake Factory, a handspun milkshake and chocolate shop at 177 Newark Ave., received $30,272 through the Small Business Lease Grant. T
he grant program, which also falls under the NJEDA’s Main Street suite of products, provides funding to cover a portion of lease payments for businesses and non-profits leasing new or additional space.
“The Small Business Lease Grant from NJEDA has been a fantastic resource in helping us open Milkshake Factory in Jersey City,” said owner Franchisee Chirag Parikh.
“Programs like this show a real commitment to supporting small businesses, making it easier for us to focus on serving our community from day one.” I do believe they were delayed in their grand opening, but I’m happy to connect you with any and all of these owners for further information.”
