Forward Bank

This week, the Federal Home Loan Bank of Chicago (FHLBank Chicago) awarded Cocina On The Square, LLC a grant of $15,000 through its Community First^® Accelerate Grants for Small Business program. FHLBank Chicago offers grants of up to $30,000 to eligible small businesses to advance economic opportunity in the communities it serves.

Cocina On The Square, LLC has been part of the Athens community since 2019 and is a deli/restaurant/catering business serving American and Authentic Mexican cuisine. Cocina On The Square is the only business in the area offering the deli and catering services along with Mexican cuisine. Grant funds will be used to renovate its layout and build additions that will create a more efficient work space and a more dynamic experience for the community.

“Opportunities to get additional funds to improve downtown businesses like the Community First Accelerate Grants is a gift to those of us dedicated to serving and employing in smaller communities,” commented Manuela Lira, co-owner of Cocina On The Square. “We can often provide a spark to the downtown district and create a sense of community by providing a space for community members to gather. Using the grant funds, we can build a new cooler/storage area and add an outdoor seating area, which would be the first and only in the community.”

Through FHLBank Chicago’s member institutions, like Forward Bank, Accelerate Grants assist the growth and development of small businesses in Illinois and Wisconsin. All grant recipients are small businesses that make a difference in their community, and funds are intended for the following purposes:

• The purchase or improvement of property
• The purchase of machinery, tools or equipment
• The purchase of inventory, materials, or supplies
• Workforce development or training
• New or upgraded technology

“Small businesses play an integral role in local communities in driving economic growth, from creating jobs to fostering community development,” said Katie Naftzger, Senior Vice President, Community Investment Officer, FHLBank Chicago. “As a leader in the housing and community development space, FHLBank Chicago recognizes that affordable housing isn’t just about the homes themselves—it’s about ensuring entire communities have what they need to thrive, including economic opportunities for the residents and small businesses who call them home.”

The grant was sponsored by Forward Bank, a customer-owned, independent community bank who operates to benefit its depositors while offering no fee deposit options, lower lending fees and rates. The Bank continues to be community-orientated by proudly supporting local clubs, businesses, sports, organizations, and schools.

“Forward has chosen Cocina On The Square because they exude everything within the definition of a proud small business owner,” stated Jessica Frahm, VP/Commercial Lender at Forward Bank in Athens. “They strive every day to find new and innovative ways to serve their customers and the community from daily specials to pop-up food tent events.”

For more information on Accelerate Grants and eligibility, visit www.fhlbc.com.

“Community First” is a registered trademark of the Federal Home Loan Bank of Chicago.