By Redacción
redaccion@latinocc.com
More than 20 small businesses in Old Town Goleta have been awarded a combined $120,000 in grants as part of the city’s effort to revitalize its historic downtown and attract more visitors to the area.
The Goleta City Council approved the funding on May 6 after reviewing recommendations from its Economic Development & Revitalization Committee.
The support comes through the city’s Pride of Place (POP) Grant Program, designed to strengthen the economic and cultural identity of Old Town while enhancing its appeal to locals and tourists alike.
“These grants are about more than just money; they are about investing in the businesses that already make Old Town special,” said District 2 Councilmember James Kyriaco. “We’re building on what exists today to secure a vibrant future.”
City officials said the program drew 28 applications seeking more than $500,000 in funding. After review, 22 projects were selected to receive financial support for ideas ranging from public art and beautification efforts to cultural events and community activities.
The funded proposals include plans for colorful murals, storefront improvements, artist markets, live performances, fitness and skateboarding competitions, dance classes, and marketing campaigns designed to bring shoppers and visitors to the neighborhood.
The grant recipients are: Avellana Dance Studio, Blue Blossoms, Buscaron Biometrics, Carpeteria Carpet One, CopyRightSB, CZ Furniture Solutions, E Salon, Elvira’s Photography and Video, Foster Functional Fitness, Goleta Barbers, Island See & Feed, Latinos Insurance Agency, Liz G Photography, NQ Nails and Spa Services, OTC Coffee (Old Town Coffee), Paperback Alley, Santa Barbara Aquatics, Santa Barbara Electronics Supply, Skate One Corp. (Powell Peralta), The Edge Salon & Barbershop, and the Starfish Connection.
City staff will work with each recipient in the coming weeks to finalize agreements and distribute funds. Recipients will also receive technical and permitting assistance as needed to help bring their projects to life.
To further support the success of the funded businesses, the city is partnering with Women’s Economic Ventures to provide free business coaching and advisory services, ensuring grantees have the tools to make the most of their projects.
The city encouraged residents and visitors to keep an eye on Old Town Goleta in the months ahead as these projects take shape.
More information about the Pride of Place Grant Program, including the full staff report, is available at www.goleta.legistar.com.
For questions about the program, contact Shannon Kirn at skirn@cityofgoleta.org or (805) 562-5512.
