The Fort Atkinson Economic Development Commission has awarded a $50,000 Capital Catalyst Revolving Loan to Little Rainbows Play Place, LLC, according to information released Tuesday by city officials.
The loan will be used to assist with operating costs associated with opening an indoor playground at 1335 N. High St., Fort Atkinson.
The company received the loan on Aug. 5, the release stated.
As described within the release, Little Rainbows Play Place is a startup business, owned by Niina Ajango Konz, which was created “based on a response to a lack of indoor space within the region for families to play and connect with each other year-round.”
The company has leased approximately 4,000 square feet from which to operate, the release noted.
The facility will offer an indoor play structure, swings and activities that would commonly be found in indoor playgrounds, the release continued.
Those interested in using the facility will soon find “drop-in rates” and “subscription options,” with “separate hours to allow private parties,” the release read.
Additionally, according to the release, the company has plans to partner with local vendors, such as Berres Brothers Coffee Roasters, Papa Brunk’s Bakery and Brickhouse Pizza Pub.
City officials anticipate that the company will add some 4-6 part-time jobs to the community’s mix of employment opportunities.
Plans call for the play place to open in September.
As stated in the release, the goal of the Capital Catalyst Revolving Loan Fund program is to encourage the startup of new businesses and the expansion of existing businesses in Fort Atkinson. Loans of up to $100,000 are available through the fund, which is made possible through a grant from the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation, and administered through the Jefferson County Economic Development Consortium (JCEDC). At the county level, the consortium works with applicants through an underwriting process, followed by a review performed by the Loan Review Committee. The body makes recommendations to the Economic Development Commission for approval.
Those interested in learning more about the loan and the application process are encouraged to visit the city of Fort Atkinson’s website: www.fortatkinsonwi.gov. Those interested in applying for the Capital Catalyst Revolving Loan Fund are encouraged to contact Deb Reinbold, executive director of the JCEDC by email: DReinbold@jeffersoncountywi.gov or phone: 920-674-8710.
Holding the ceremonial check, Jason Konz, at left, and Niina Ajango Konz, the owners of Little Rainbows Play Place, LLC, share their enthusiasm after being awarded some $50,000 in operating funds made available through the Capital Catalyst Revolving Loan program. The business is anticipated to open in Fort Atkinson in September. The couple is flanked by their children, Flynn and Griffin. Contributed photo.
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