OSKALOOSA — The Mahaska Chamber & Development Group is offering a grant opportunity for individuals  looking to open a new restaurant or brew pub in Mahaska County.  

“This is a one-time grant in the amount of $15,000,” said Deann De Groot, Executive Director of  the Chamber. “Current data shows Mahaska County is losing 60% of restaurant and bar sales to areas  outside the county to boost this sector of our economy.” 

The grant is open to individuals who are opening a new restaurant or bar, or existing restaurants  who are looking to expand their services to help fulfill needs in the Mahaska community. Eligible  projects include full-service restaurants, limited-service restaurants, grill buffets, brew pubs, or similar  concepts. 

Applications will be accepted until June 30, 2023, and will be reviewed by the Mahaska County Ag & Rural Development (MCARD) loan review committee who are providing funds from the existing  Mahaska County Revolving Loan Fund. 

Applications will be scored based on overall planning, need, partnerships, sustainability, impact,  and goals of the business. 

“We expect this grant opportunity will be competitive, so encourage applicants to be thorough  in preparing their proposal,” said De Groot. 

A link to the application can be found on the Mahaska Chamber & Development Group’s website at https://www.mahaskachamber.org/resources/grants/. For more information call the  Chamber at 641-672-2591.