The impact of Jefferson Matters grants: CHiRP Coffee
Sometimes the best business ideas start with a simple thought:
“You know what Jefferson needs?”
For Rona Challen, Shannon Hansen, Terri Renwanz, and Carrie Peters, that thought was a drive-through coffee shop. After raising their families in Jefferson for more than 20 years, these four friends were at a stage in life where they wanted to give back to the community that had given so much to them.
CHiRP Coffee opened along Highway 30 with a clear goal: serve high-quality beverages and food while creating a positive experience.
But like many new businesses, startup costs add up quickly.
How local support played a role
CHiRP Coffee applied for two Jefferson Matters grant programs: the Jefferson Wants You incentive grant and the Signage Grant.
→ Their $500 Signage Grant went toward exterior signage improvements, making sure customers could easily find them and recognize their space.
→ Their $5,000 Jefferson Wants You incentive grant was used for patio furniture and an umbrella for their outdoor space. These additions helped create a more inviting environment and enhanced the overall customer experience.
Most importantly, those grants helped reduce startup costs at a critical time. It allows business owners to focus on building relationships and growing something sustainable.
“Jefferson is a great place to live, work, and play.”
Their story is a great example of how local grant programs can help turn an idea into a thriving business. By easing financial pressure during startup, these grants allow entrepreneurs to focus on building something lasting.
When asked what they would tell someone thinking about opening a business in Jefferson, Carrie Peters said, “Jefferson is a great place to live, work, and play.”
CHiRP Coffee exists because four local women believed in this community. The grants exist because the community believes in local entrepreneurs. When those two things come together, good things happen.
Your idea could be next!
If you’re thinking about starting or expanding a business in Jefferson, these grant opportunities may be available to help you take that next step!