(Buffalo,NY)The ECIDA’s Minority Entrepreneur Grant & Loan program, a successful pilot program which aids small, minority-owned businesses, is looking for applicants.

The ECIDA launched the program in 2008, awarding nearly $400,000 in low-interest loans and grants to 10 Buffalo businesses. Ninety percent of the recipients are thriving and growing.
The first round of funding aided minority entrepreneurs, operating in industries such as food service, beauty, cleaning services, music,recreation and construction. They received a mix of 10-year low interest loan and grants of up to $5,000.
One winner, Donnie’s Smokehouse and Catering, also received the
ECIDA Small Business of the Year Recognition Award this year.

Donnie’s was founded in 1999 by Racine and Donnie Leverette.
Donnie’s developed its own secret barbeque sauce and specializes in natural wood smoked meats. They plan to franchise their operation and market their award winning barbecue sauce nationally.

The ECIDA is launching a second minority business growth program
this year due to the success of the 2008 program. 2008 program participants included:

Kerns Avenue Bowling Center; Mars Nails & Spa; Jericho Demolition; Affordable Scrubs & Stuff; ABC Cleaning; Serenity Hair Boutique; Tastings and Singleton Construction Services.


ECIDA
275 Oak Street, Suite 150
Buffalo, NY 14203
ph: 716. 856.6525
fx: 716. 856.6754
www.ecidany.com