Important Notice:

The Dream Maker Fund was a success. As a community, we were able to bridge the gap and keep alive the dreams of 297 Jackson-area businesses.

In total, the Fund:

• Received 787 requests for assistance.

• Provided 297 grants, totaling $1,015,370 in support.

• Impacted approximately 2,000 Jackson-area workers.

We couldn’t have done this alone. In addition to the $1 million from the Poppe Family, we received $15,000 in support from 11 different organizations – proving Jackson’s small business owners are not in this fight alone. Together, we can do anything.

 

Small Business Emergency Relief Fund

Dream Maker Small Business Emergency Relief Fund is made possible with a personal gift of $1 million to the Jackson Community Foundation from Consumers Energy President and CEO Patti Poppe and her husband Eric during the COVID-19 pandemic. 
 

What is the Fund's Purpose?

The fund is established to support small for profit businesses in the couple’s home county of Jackson, Michigan, through grants made by The Enterprise Group Community Ventures Corporation. The intent of the Dream Maker grants is not to ensure the long-term solvency of businesses; rather, they are meant to cover short-term (i.e., next 30 days) gaps until these businesses can access state and federal resources. 

*This short-term gap grant is not meant to cover wages of laid off or not working employees. 
 

Who is the Fund Intended to Help?

Small businesses registered in Jackson County that are struggling economically due to the statewide business closure required to keep us safe during the Coronavirus outbreak. We want all small businesses to succeed in the long term, but our goal with this money is to provide help NOW. These funds are intended solely to bridge the gap in the coming weeks to help businesses survive until they can secure additional assistance from the state and federal government.

For more information, visit our website.