Redesigned in 2026 to support the existing small-business community in Bloomington
Contest Announcement:
Hatch Bloomington Loves Local Awards a total of $124,000 to Five Small Businesses
Following a competitive application process, 10 Bloomington businesses advanced to the live Hatch Bloomington Loves Local Pitch Event on Wednesday, July 29, where finalists presented their funding requests to a panel of local business leaders and community representatives.
The judges determined the quality of this year's finalists exceeded expectations and recommended increasing the available funding to support more businesses. In response, the Bloomington Port Authority provided an additional $24,000 in 2026 Business Assistance Funds, increasing the total award amount from $100,000 to $124,000.
The following businesses were selected to receive funding:
Ado's Auto Body Collision and Repair Center ($40,000)
Afghan Darbar ($40,000)
Zeke's Place ($20,000)
Bloomington Garden Center and Landscape Co. ($12,000)
Bloomington Brewery & Taproom (Nine Mile Brewing) ($12,000)
“The quality of this year's applicants speaks to the strength of Bloomington's small business community,” said Mayor Tim Busse. “Congratulations to this year's funding recipients and to all 10 finalists for sharing their vision and commitment to growing Bloomington's local economy."
The funding recipients will be recognized at the August 31 Bloomington City Council meeting.
Congratulations to all 10 finalists for their innovation, entrepreneurship and dedication to serving the Bloomington community.
Residents who missed the live event watch the full Hatch Bloomington Loves Local Pitch Event on the City's YouTube channel - video linked below.
Learn About the Hatch Bloomington Pitch Competition
The City of Bloomington announces Hatch Bloomington Loves Local, a special 2026 edition of its annual Hatch Bloomington business pitch competition.
This year, instead of providing an award for one new business concept, Hatch Bloomington Loves Local will provide financial assistance for up to five existing Bloomington businesses. The change reflects Bloomington’s commitment to supporting local businesses and jobs during a challenging period for many small-business owners.
Total financial assistance administered will be $100,000.
“We know small businesses are a vital part of Bloomington’s economy and community,” said Bloomington Mayor Tim Busse. “This year, we wanted Hatch Bloomington to focus on supporting the businesses that are already here, employing our residents and serving our neighborhoods. Hatch Bloomington Loves Local is one way we can invest directly in their continued success.”
The application portal opened June 10th and closed July 6th, 2026, with a Top 10 Pitch Event on July 29th.
100,000 reasons to enter Hatch Bloomington
