POCAHONTAS — Pocahontas County Economic Development Commission has awarded grants to two businesses to spur development in the county.

Aspen Leaf Cafe & Coffee House was awarded a grant to open their doors in Pocahontas. TMC Tack & Supplies of rural Havelock were awarded a grant to launch a mobile unit to sell tack and supplies all throughout Iowa and the Midwest.

PCEDC launched the Jump-Start Accelerator Grant Program with $10,000 seed money over the summer to assist new businesses in gaining capital to open their doors and thrive within Pocahontas County.

The Iowa Economic Development Authority additionally awarded PCEDC with $20,000 to get to help the program. PCEDC will provide support as needed through their network of partners, including Iowa Central Community College and the Small Business Development Center to ensure that the grant recipients have the skills and training necessary to be successful.

“The Jump-Start Accelerator Grant supports PCEDC’s mission to increase economic opportunity through business formation, job creation and appropriate business and community development strategies for the citizens of Pocahontas County,” said Emily Williams, workforce marketing coordinator.

The Jump-Start Accelerator Grant Program is supported by the Governor’s Empower Rural Iowa Initiative.

“These grants will definitely increase the vibrancy of Pocahontas County. We are thrilled with what the future of this program will bring as we empower rural entrepreneurs and continue to enhance our business communities,” said Tom Grau, PCEDC executive director. “The program will continue in the future with a new grant cycle each summer for those looking to start or expand their businesses in the Princess County.”