Ararat Rural City Council has congratulated Ange Leithhead and the team at The Lolly Shop In Ararat, who have been awarded a $2,500 Kick Start grant to support the setup costs of their new business in the heart of the CBD.
Located at 123 Barkly Street, Ararat, The Lolly Shop In Ararat opened in late January and is already attracting families, children, and sweet-toothed locals.
With a new facade and signage currently with Council's Planning team for approval, the Kick Start funding will assist Ange with some of the on-costs of opening a business before even making a dollar, helping with a range of prohibitive costs associated with opening or moving a business into a commercial site.
The Lolly Shop offers a fun range of lollies, as well as custom party bags for birthdays and other celebrations, and fundraising options for groups such as sports clubs.
Mayor Cr Bob Sanders said it was pleasing to see a new small business investing in Ararat's main street, and taking up the opportunity offered through Council's business grants. "It is always exciting to see people backing themselves and opening a new business in our CBD," Cr Sanders said. "Ange and the team at The Lolly Shop are adding something a bit different for locals and visitors, and it is great to be able to support them through our Kick Start program as they put down roots in Barkly Street."
"Council's grants are about helping local businesses get established, improve their shopfronts, and contribute to a busy, welcoming town centre," he said. "We encourage people to call in, say hello, and support The Lolly Shop as they grow their business in Ararat."
The Kick Start Grants form part of Council's broader support for local businesses, offering assistance to a business coming into a commercial premises with set-up costs such as leasing, insurances, fixtures and fittings, electrical or plumbing, and other establishment expenses for eligible new enterprises.
Businesses interested in future rounds of the program can find more information on Council's website. https://www.ararat.vic.gov.au/community/grants-and-funding/kick-start-grants
