Edge District bookstore-coffee shop, The Four Way get renovation loans
The Economic Development Growth Engine’s Economic Development Finance Committee approved more than $58,000 in loans to three local businesses in a special-called meeting on Monday, March 3.
Incoming bookstore Cafe Noir, soul food restaurant The Four Way and preschool Dream Academy Learning Center received Inner City Economic Development (ICED) loans, a forgivable loan, to improve facades, streetscapes and interior design.
“The ICED Loan program continues to be a vital tool in strengthening Memphis neighborhoods by supporting small businesses and local entrepreneurs,” said Joann Massey, president and CEO of EDGE. “These forgivable loans help businesses grow, create jobs and revitalize commercial corridors, ensuring long-term economic impact across our city.”
The committee granted a $25,000 ICED loan to Cafe Noir, a digital bookstore planning to open a brick-and-mortar space in the Edge District at 635 Madison Ave.