November 26, 2024
EAU CLAIRE, Wis. – Royal Credit Union (Royal) is proud to announce that two business Members, Flowering Lawns Inc. and Be Wild Burgers, have each been awarded $15,000 through the Federal Home Loan Bank of Chicago's (FHLB) Accelerate Grant Program.
With the support of Royal’s business banking team, both businesses successfully applied for and secured the grant funding, which will enable them to make critical investments in their growth. These grants are intended to assist local businesses in areas such as asset acquisition, workforce development, and technology upgrades.
Flowering Lawns Inc., founded by Anthony Nied in Eau Claire, is on a mission to eliminate lawn chemicals and promote pollinator-friendly lawns. The business offers “Flawn” Seed Kits, blends of wildflowers and clover that reduce the need for mowing, watering, and fertilizing, while benefiting pollinators and the environment. Nied plans to use the grant to expand inventory, helping meet rising demand for eco-friendly lawn solutions.
Be Wild Burgers, a family-owned restaurant operated by Jeff and Kathy Lundmark in St. Croix Falls, is celebrated not only for its handmade burgers but also for its positive impact on the community. The Lundmarks plan to use the grant to develop both indoor and outdoor seating, enhancing the dining experience and attracting more patrons. This expansion will also enable Be Wild Burgers to further support its commitment to giving back to the community.
“We are thrilled to see our members succeed and take advantage of such valuable opportunities,” said Karlee Wallin, VP Business Banking Manager at Royal. “This grant funding will not only help these businesses grow but also contribute to the overall economic vitality of our communities”
The FHLB Chicago’s Accelerate Grant Program is designed to support small businesses and help them grow, particularly in underserved and economically impacted areas. This initiative provides critical financial support to help businesses adapt to the evolving demands of their industries and communities.
For more information about the FHLB Chicago’s Community First Accelerate Grant Program, visit Community First Accelerate Grants for Small Business (fhlbc.com).
About Royal Credit Union
Royal Credit Union is a federally insured credit union proudly serving over 300,000 Members in Minnesota and Wisconsin. Royal is driven by a core ideology built on a strong purpose and values. You can open an account or apply for a low-rate loan at Royal Credit Union if you live or work in 26 counties in western Wisconsin or 16 counties in Minnesota. Counties served in Wisconsin include Adams, Ashland, Bayfield, Barron, Buffalo, Burnett, Chippewa, Clark, Douglas, Dunn, Eau Claire, Jackson, Lincoln, Marathon, Pepin, Pierce, Polk, Portage, Price, Rusk, Sawyer, St. Croix, Taylor, Trempealeau, Washburn, and Wood. Counties served in Minnesota include Anoka, Carver, Chisago, Dakota, Goodhue, Hennepin, Isanti, Olmsted, Pine, Ramsey, Scott, Sherburne, Wabasha, Washington, Winona and Wright. A complete list of Member eligibility requirements is available on the Royal Credit Union website. To learn more about Royal, visit rcu.org or call 800-341-9911.
