Mayberry’s Coffee House & Eatery in Osceola, Iowa, was one of five statewide finalists of the Open 4 Business Grant program, winning a grant for expansion, revitalization, and community growth.
After submitting a video and application, Mayberry’s was selected out of twenty-two candidates from across the state, advancing through three rounds of competition. The Iowa Economic Development Authority awarded grants totaling $40,000 to five businesses, one each from Corning, Dubuque, Mount Vernon, Osceola, and West Union. Each business was awarded an $8,000 grant at the sub-state level and will have the opportunity at the end of August to present their business plans to Main Street Iowa for the chance at an additional award of up to $20,000.00.
“The improvements we have planned are designed to build up the business of the entire Osceola community,” said Molly Crawford, owner of Mayberry’s. “Things like this will help everyone shine and draw more business to the square, benefitting everyone.”
Mayberry’s Coffee House & Eatery is a family-owned and operated business that opened on the south side of the Osceola square in December of 2016. Featuring seasonal drinks and daily lunch specials, Mayberry’s has quickly become a fixture in the community. If awarded the first-place prize, Mayberry’s plans to open the drive-through with a menu board, speaker system, and additional equipment to boost efficiency.
“As the only locally owned coffee shop off I-35 between Kansas City and Des Moines, Mayberry’s stands to attract the over 40,000 drivers that pass through the area every day,” said Bill Trickey, Executive Director of the Clarke County Development Corporation. “By increasing their exposure, Mayberry’s will be instrumental in bringing more people downtown which benefits the entire community.”
The Open 4 Business competition is part of the Main Street Iowa (MSI) initiative, which focuses on helping communities with economic development through preservation and district revitalization. MSI builds on the ongoing development efforts in Osceola and more than 40 other commercial districts throughout the state.
Stop in to Mayberry’s Coffee House & Eatery right on the south side of the Osceola square or contact them through their Web site at www.MayberrysEatery.com to congratulate the team and wish them luck on the state contest at the end of August!