City of Des Moines Celebrates Entrepreneurs to Kick of Small Business Week

Press Release

Des Moines, Iowa- Tuesday, May 14, 2025 - The City of Des Moines recognizes and celebrates its important and impactful small business community during National Small Business Week, May 4-11. This year, we are spotlighting the impact of one established, City-led financial program and the first-ever recipients of a newly established City-led program.

Established in 2021, the Neighborhood Commercial Revitalization (NCR) program has awarded $1.5 million in matching funds to support mid- and large-scale renovations of more than two dozen buildings in key neighborhood corridors across Des Moines. The NCR program has extended the life of buildings in neighborhoods like the Highland Park and Drake Neighborhoods and created new homes for small businesses and entrepreneurs throughout the City.

New in 2025, the Small Business Impact Loan program is designed to provide targeted financial assistance for small businesses ready to launch, expand, or scale but face barriers to accessing traditional lending sources. This program is issuing its first-ever low-interest microloans to six small business owners. These funds will go towards tenant space improvements, equipment purchases, marketing efforts, and inventory needs, all critical for helping small businesses scale their operations and succeed.

"The heartbeat of our city lies in the creativity, resilience, and impact of our small business owners," said Connie Boesen, Mayor of Des Moines. "Programs like the Neighborhood Commercial Revitalization and the Small Business Impact Loan reflect our commitment to helping these businesses thrive."

Small Business Impact Loan Program 2025 Recipients

24K Juice - A health-focused business in Des Moines, is moving into their first retail space thanks to support from the Small Business Impact Loan program. This project includes expanding the menu with more juices, smoothies, and healthy snacks. It also allows for the upgrade of the café and kitchen with new energy-efficient equipment, installing a self-serve kiosk, and launching a targeted marketing and website campaign.

Black Bagel - Black Bagel blends tradition, community, and culinary passion. Their new shop will be in the Center at Sixth development within the historic 6^th Avenue Corridor. Black bagel aims to become a gathering space for neighbors and visitors to the district with their fresh, handmade bagels and house-made cream cheese crafted from locally sourced ingredients.

Chandelier - An exciting new event space in Highland Park, Chandelier brings new life to a building which sat vacant for over a decade. Chandelier is also dedicated to supporting local entrepreneurs through an open vendor policy. This approach welcomes local caterers, event planners, food trucks, musicians, and more to showcase their talents, driving both economic growth and community collaboration.

Hotori - Recently opened at 1417 Walnut Street in the Western Gateway area, Hotori is offers authentic Asian groceries and household goods, and will serve as a vibrant community space with cultural events, food tastings, and cooking demonstrations.

Rook Room - Opening soon at 300 SW 5^th Street, the Rook Room is transforming from a pop-up game-based event business to a full board game lounge and café, offering an inviting new spae for connection, creativity, and community.

Tullpa Restaurant - An authentic Peruvian eatery, Tullpa specializes in traditional, homemade Peruvian dishes, delivering authentic flavors and a welcoming, family-like atmosphere. Tullpa will be upgrading its dining area, refreshing the menus, and launching a marketing campaign.

The City's Small Business Support Center, an initiative by Mayor Boesen, is pivotal in coordinating support for local entrepreneurs. By partnering with internal departments and external stakeholders, the support center connects business owners with technical assistance, access to capital, and other essential resources to overcome challenges and grow within Des Moines.

To learn more about the City's Small Business Support Center, visit dsm.city/smallbusiness.