In the heart of Kansas City, a program has emerged to support small businesses that have faced the challenges of recent break-ins and vandalism. The Back to Business fund, launched a month ago, has seen a surge of interest from local entrepreneurs seeking to recover and rebuild. As the city processes over 100 applications, the program's impact is being felt across the community.

Reviving Kansas City's Small Business Ecosystem

Vandalism Recovery Grants: Restoring Businesses to their Former Glory

The Back to Business fund offers two distinct grant opportunities for small businesses in Kansas City. The first, the Vandalism Recovery Grant, provides up to $3,000 per business as reimbursement for vandalism incidents that occurred between July 1, 2024, and July 31, 2025. This lifeline is crucial for businesses like Brewer's Kitchen & Corner, which fell victim to a break-in and the theft of $3,000 from their safe last August. Owner Chris Riggins expressed his gratitude for the program, stating, "I believe the city is going to take care of me. I think that is the point of it." However, the application process has not been without its challenges, as Riggins faced hurdles such as a zip code error and the need to repair the damaged door before the city could approve his request.

Vandalism Prevention Grants: Safeguarding Businesses for the Future

The second grant opportunity, the Vandalism Prevention Grant, offers up to $5,000 per business to reimburse the cost of eligible security measures acquired between July 1, 2024, and July 31, 2025. This proactive approach aims to equip small businesses with the tools they need to deter future criminal activity and protect their livelihoods. The city has received inquiries from nonprofits and non-storefront commercial buildings, indicating a growing interest in utilizing these prevention grants to bolster the security of the entire business community.

Navigating the Application Process: Challenges and Perseverance

The application process for the Back to Business fund has not been without its obstacles. Riggins, the owner of Brewer's Kitchen & Corner, faced a setback when his initial application was denied due to a zip code error and the fact that the damaged door had not yet been repaired. He expressed his frustration, saying, "It is disheartening when you apply for something and you feel like yes I'm finally going to get reprieve, it has been months of negative, and then to immediately get denied that hurt." However, Riggins remained resilient, repairing the door and reapplying for the grant, determined to secure the much-needed assistance.

Mayoral Perspective: Ensuring Responsible Fund Allocation

Mayor Quinton Lucas acknowledged the challenges business owners may face during the application process, emphasizing the city's commitment to ensuring no fraud or mismanagement occurs. "Part of the reason you might run into roadblocks is very simply this government isn't set up to give money away, so we want to make sure that people are businesses in Kansas City that they are up to date on their taxes," he explained. The mayor recommended that business owners seek assistance from the BizCare program by calling 311, underscoring the city's dedication to supporting small businesses through the process.

Looking Ahead: Sustaining the Back to Business Fund

The Small Business Task Force is already exploring funding options for the Back to Business program beyond the current cycle, with plans to continue the initiative through the 2026 World Cup. This long-term commitment demonstrates the city's recognition of the vital role small businesses play in the local economy and their determination to ensure their resilience in the face of adversity. Riggins, the owner of Brewer's Kitchen & Corner, expressed his hope that the funds would be distributed soon, allowing businesses to be ready to shine on the world stage during the upcoming World Cup.As the Back to Business fund continues to process applications and disburse much-needed assistance, the city of Kansas City is sending a clear message: small businesses are the backbone of the community, and the city is committed to supporting their recovery and growth, even in the face of unexpected challenges.