WDI Weekly Newsletter
April 14, 2022
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The webinar takes place on Tuesday, April 26, from 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m.
With our hurricane season fast approaching, CFCC and the American Red Cross will help you navigate the "Ready Rating" tool, a free tool designed to help better prepare for an emergency.
Click here to learn more about the webinar and register.
Watch the video below to learn more about
the Cape Fear Community College Small Business Center!
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$200 Million Remains Available as Categories of Eligible Businesses Expand |
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The N.C. Department of Revenue (NCDOR) plans to launch the application for Phase 2 of the Business Recovery Grant (BRG) program on Monday, May 2, with changes to the program’s eligibility criteria allowing many additional businesses to qualify for these grants.
BRG will issue a payment to an eligible North Carolina business that suffered an economic loss of at least 20% during the pandemic. The grant amount is a percentage of the economic loss demonstrated by the eligible business or $500,000, whichever is less. The application deadline is June 1.
“Barbers, cosmetologists, gyms and other service providers were hit hard by the pandemic and it’s important to expand these grants to help them too,” Governor Roy Cooper said. “Our small businesses are the backbone of our economy and strong support for them is critical.”
Many businesses excluded in Phase 1 are eligible to apply in Phase 2. In addition to COVID-impacted businesses in the hospitality industry, such as restaurants and hotels, the BRG is now open to other businesses affected by the pandemic, such as:
- Farmers and Agribusinesses
- Gyms and Trainers
- Salons and Barbers
- Massage Therapists
- Dentists
- Lawyers
- Doctors
- Interior Designers
- Hardware Stores
- Pharmacies
- Landscapers
- Mechanics
- Tailors and Dry Cleaners
Additionally, a business’s previous receipt of a grant award from certain federal programs will not make it ineligible for a reimbursement grant. This list is non-exhaustive, and businesses are encouraged to visit the Business Recovery Grant program website to learn more about eligibility criteria beginning May 2.
Following the initial application period, which closed on Jan. 31, approximately $203.5 million remained of the $500 million in funds initially authorized for the program. NCDOR worked with the N.C. General Assembly to expand eligibility to certain businesses impacted by the pandemic but that did not qualify for the first round of funds.
“Our hope is that the expanded Business Recovery Grant program requirements will encourage more eligible North Carolina businesses to apply,” NCDOR Secretary Ronald Penny said. “These funds are available for eligible businesses that suffered a financial loss because of the pandemic and we want to make sure those businesses receive them.”
Two types of grants will be available to eligible businesses for Phase 2:
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A hospitality grant is available to an eligible arts, entertainment, or recreation business, as well as an eligible accommodation or foodservice business such as a hotel, restaurant, or bar (NAICS code 71 and 72).
- A reimbursement grant is available to an eligible business not classified in NAICS Code 71 and 72. A business’s previous receipt of a grant award from certain federal programs will not make it ineligible for a reimbursement grant.
Gross receipts reported on the expanded list of tax forms can be used to calculate an economic loss for Phase 2, making the BRG available to sole proprietors, corporations, and other businesses that do not report gross receipts on Form E-500 or Federal Form 1065. This may also provide a larger grant award to businesses that primarily provide services.
On May 2, eligible business owners will be able to apply for Phase 2 online. More detailed information and answers to Frequently Asked Questions will also be available on the NCDOR website.
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Pre-order a copy of "DARE to Dream" today! |
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Pre-orders are now open for "DARE to Dream," a new book by Gene Merritt, a longtime Wilmington resident, property owner, economic developer, and co-founder of D.A.R.E (Downtown Area Revitalization Effort, founded in 1977), which later became Wilmington Downtown, iNC.
"DARE to Dream" focuses on the history of the revitalization of downtown Wilmington and is packed full of stories and photographs.
To pre-order your copy of "DARE to Dream," email Gene Merrit at gene@genemerritt.com. The $20 pre-order price covers the printing and mailing costs.
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Interest rates are rising: Lock in a Microloan at a rate of 2.625% before the next increase. |
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Wilmington Downtown, iNC is urging businesses seeking small capital loans to apply for the Microloan Program before interest rates rise again this year.
A business approved for a loan as part of WDI's Microloan Program can receive up to a $20,000 loan at 3/4 of the New York Prime rate. As of this week, the rate is currently 2.625%. The loan rate is fixed on the date of closing.
In addition, WDI is awarding $1,500 grant checks through its Microloan Assistance Grant Program to support 15 businesses that close a Microloan.
WDI has developed this financial assistance program to directly support entrepreneurs and incentivize small business investment.
Businesses inside and beyond the traditional downtown footprint in the Central Businesses District (CBD) can apply for the program. The WDI Microloan Program is aimed to help existing small businesses weather the impacts of COVID and attract new businesses to start in the CBD and the City's emerging districts.
Our emerging business districts are: Brooklyn Arts, Cargo, Castle Street, North Waterfront, Northside, South Front, and Soda Pop districts.
WDI has joined with Civic Federal Credit Union as the underwriter for this lending program.
WDI manages the intake for this program, while Civic Federal Credit Union manages the lending and review of businesses’ sensitive financial information.
Microloans facilitate business spending on eligible expenditures, including purchasing inventory, paying up to 3 months of rent, buying furniture, making equipment purchases and repairs, and adding/expanding e-commerce capabilities.
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Wave Transit is currently hiring for its vacant Deputy Director position. This is a full-time job with an annual salary range between $90,000 and $105,000.
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Hell's Kitchen at 118 Princess St. in downtown Wilmington is hiring servers and line cooks.
For those interested, please send an email to Eric Laut at airwaves57@gmail.com and he will set up an interview.
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Front Street Brewery is currently hiring hosts! The downtown brewery and restaurant is looking for customer-service-oriented team members to greet and seat guests.
To apply, visit Front Street Brewery at 9 N. Front St. to grab an application at the host stand!
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Apply in person at the City Club of Wilmington anytime
Wednesday through Friday between 2:30 p.m. and 4:30 p.m.
City Club is located at 23 S. Second St. in downtown Wilmington.
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Museum internships are also offered and can be combined with your field of study. Email your resume and cover letter to internships@playwilmington.org and explain the area of operation you are interested in.
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Second Skin Vintage is a true vintage clothing store looking to hire experienced salespeople to provide excellent customer service and sell clothing. The vintage inventory is unique and requires a special level of interest and enthusiasm.
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Tarantelli's is a family-owned restaurant downtown serving authentic Italian dishes and wine.
Tarantelli's is currently hiring a line/prep cook to join the culinary team!
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Floriana is now hiring front of house and back of house workers!
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Mellow Mushroom is hiring at its downtown location! Job positions include hosts and kitchen staff.
For more information call the restaurant at 910-769-6688 between 11:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m.
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Front Street, is currently hiring baristas.
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Head to 28 N. Front St. at its downtown location to pick up an application today.
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Homegrown Market in Wilmington is now hiring cashiers and looking for a store manager.
Click here to fill out the application on the website!
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Swahili Coast is now hiring folks who can help tell the story of their partner artisan co-operatives. Hiring full and part time as well as internships for qualified candidates.
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If your business is hiring please let us know! Send WDI a list of your job positions and other details by emailing office@wilmingtondowntown.com.
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WHQR is celebrating 37 years of radio on Friday, April 22, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Hi-Wire Brewing.
Come enjoy some cake, chat with the WHQR staff, and grab some free WHQR gear.
Items include:
-Canned Fruits, Vegetables, Meat, and Soup (Pop-top cans and low sodium a plus!)
-Whole Grain Pasta, Brown Rice, Dried Beans, and Cereal
-Peanut Butter
-For Infants: Pedialyte, Infant Cereal, Diapers, and Wipes
-For Kids: Fruit Cups, Juice Boxes, Granola Bars, Crackers, Popcorn and Sugar-Free Pudding Cups
-Non-Food Essentials: Hygiene Items, Household Items, and Paper Product
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The Full Moon Cruise is starting on April 16, and will be accompanied by musician Mark Herbert.
Other cruises being offered are the Eagle Island Cruise, the Sunset Cruise and
Wine Tasting Cruise!
Click here for more information about all upcoming events and to book an upcoming cruise!
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Eric Kozen, the superintendent, has decades of horticultural experience and will delight you with the knowledge of the flora of Oakdale.
Tickets are $10 and are sold onsite the day of the event.
Click here for more information and to check out future tour dates!
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This market focuses on unique local art, as well as handmade items, vintage finds, and up-cycled goods.
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This special exhibit will be featured from April 15 to May 21. Or join the gallery Friday, April 22 from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., as part of the Fourth Friday Gallery Night!
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The main show will run until May 1, and all purchases of sunflowers go to a good cause!
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April 14
7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Hi-Wire Brewing
1020 Princess St.
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April 15
7:00 PM
Reel Cafe
100 S. Front St.
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April 15-16
7:00 PM & 9:30 PM
Dead Crow Comedy Room
511 N. Third St.
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April 15-17
10:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Springbrook Farms
Starts on Market St. Between Water and Front Streets
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April 16
11:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Three of Cups Club
1901 Kent St.
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April 16
8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
North Carolina Battleship
1 Battleship Road
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April 16
4:00 PM - 6:00 PM
Terra Sol Sanctuary
507 Castle St.
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April 19
5:30 PM - 6:30 PM
Flytrap Brewing
319 Walnut St.
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April 23
12:00 PM - 3:00 PM
Waterline Brewing Co.
721 Surry St.
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April 24
2:00 PM
Pier 33 Apartments
901 Nutt St.
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Show starts at 6:00 PM, April 14
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Show starts at
7:00 PM, April 16
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Show starts at
6:00 PM, April 21
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Show starts at
7:00 PM, April 22
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Show starts at
6:00 PM,
April 26-27
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Show starts at
6:00 PM, April 28
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Show starts at 6:00 PM, May 1
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Show starts at
6:00 PM, May 16
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Show starts at 7:00 PM,
May 20
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Show starts at
7:00 PM,
May 21
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Show starts at 6:00 PM,
May 24
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Show starts at
6:00 PM, May 29
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Show starts at,
7:00 PM, June 24
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Show starts at
7:00 PM, Aug. 7
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Show starts
at 7:00 PM,
May 6-8
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Show starts at 7:30 PM, May 17
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Show starts at
8:00 PM,
May 22
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Show starts at
8:00 PM, May 24
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Show starts at
7:00 PM, June 3
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Show starts at
7:00 PM, June 4
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Show starts at
7:30 PM, June 10
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Show starts at
8:00 PM, June 17
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Show starts at
7:30 PM, June 18
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Show starts at
7:30 PM, July 2
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Show starts at
7:00 PM, July 15
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Show starts at
7:00 PM, Sep. 3
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Show starts at
8:00 PM, Sep. 16
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Show starts at
7:00 PM,
Sep. 20
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Show starts at
7:30 PM, Sep. 21
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Show starts at
8:00 PM, Sep. 29
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Show starts at
10:00 AM, May 10-12
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Show starts at
2:00 PM, May 15
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Show starts at
6:00 PM, June 16
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Show starts at
7:30 PM, April 19
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Show starts at
7:30 PM, April 22
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Show starts at
7:30 PM, Apr. 23
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Show starts at
7:30 PM, Apr. 26-27
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Show starts at
7:30 PM, Apr. 28
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Show starts at
3:00 PM & 8:00 PM,
Apr. 30
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Show starts at
7:30 PM, May 14
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Show starts at 7:30 PM, July 5-6
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The show starts at
7:30 PM, Friday and Saturday;
and at 2:00 PM
on Sundays, through
April 17
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Show starts at
7:30, April 14
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Showtimes vary,
April 18-20
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Show starts at
7:30 PM, April 21
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Show starts at
4:00 PM and
7:00 PM,
April 22
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Show starts a
3:00 PM, April 24. Events are through May 5.
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Show starts at
3:00 PM,
April 24
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Show starts at
7:30 PM, April 24
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Show starts at
3:00 PM and 7:30 PM,
April 30
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Show starts at
8:00 PM, April 15
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Show starts at
8:00 PM, April 16
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Show starts at
4:00 PM,
April 17
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Show starts at
8:00 PM, April 22
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Show starts at
8:00 PM, April 23
and at 4:00 PM, April 24
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Show starts at
8:00 PM, April 29
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Show starts at
8:00 PM, April 30
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226 N. Front St., Suite 130
Wilmington, NC 28401
Phone: (910) 998-7744
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