Jasper Main Street is thrilled to introduce its implementation of AL Spark, an exciting initiative of Main Street Alabama, supported by the Small Business Administration. AL Spark is designed to energize emerging and growing businesses in designated Main Street Alabama communities across the state. By empowering locally directed business development, this new marketing grant program is dedicated to igniting the potential of small businesses and entrepreneurs in our state, ensuring our communities thrive while maintaining their unique character.
AL Spark serves Jasper through three key programs—Livewire (business development), Illuminate (marketing grants), and Bright Ideas (business pitch competition).
Livewire offers essential business development and training resources, equipping local entrepreneurs with the tools they need to thrive. Illuminate provides valuable business marketing grants, ensuring local businesses shine bright in the marketplace. Finally, Bright Ideas encourages innovation through a dynamic business pitch competition, fostering creativity and collaboration among community members.
The following businesses completed the online marketing courses and will receive an AL Spark Illuminate marketing grant of $1000, thanks to the resources provided by Main Street Alabama and the Small Business Administration:
1. Tallulah Brewing
2. The Massage Den
3. Alabama Stackers
4. Trolley On Main
5. Main Street Taqueria
Main Street Alabama President & State Coordinator Mary Helmer Wirth echoes her excitement for the program and says, “We are absolutely thrilled to introduce AL Spark, Igniting Main Street Alabama’s Small Businesses and Entrepreneurs! This vibrant new initiative is dedicated to igniting the potential of small businesses and entrepreneurs in Alabama. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the Small Business Administration for the grant, which enables us to uplift small businesses in our designated cities and foster a vibrant local economy.”
“This year marks a decade of incredible progress and growth for Jasper Main Street, and we couldn’t be more excited to celebrate our 10-year anniversary by announcing the Main Street Alabama AL Spark Illuminate grant awards,” said Mike Putman, Executive Director of Jasper Main Street. “These grants represent not only an investment in our local businesses but also a testament to the thriving, collaborative spirit that has defined our journey over the past ten years. Together, we’re illuminating a bright future for Downtown Jasper.”
ABOUT JASPER MAIN STREET
The City of Jasper became a designated Main Street Alabama Community on June 1, 2015. This public/private partnership with the City of Jasper on mutually beneficial projects nurtures the culture of collaboration for encouraging events to increase the exposure of our downtown area.
Since Jasper Main Street’s designation in 2015, the Downtown District has seen significant changes, including thriving businesses, generating over $26 million in private investments (new construction, rehabilitation of existing property, and property sales) with over 360 new jobs created. The downtown district has also benefited from over $8.8 million in public investments (municipal infrastructure improvements and construction) and has become a vibrant backdrop for many year-round events.
With a mission to preserve and enhance the historic charm and integrity of our community, while encouraging local spending, tourism, and a sense of community, Jasper Main Street has grown and built a diverse group of volunteers dedicated to fulfilling the organization’s mission.
