Farmington, AR | August 5th, 2024 – UpStart Thrift Store, operated by the Startup Junkie Foundation, has awarded grants to two outstanding local entrepreneurs through the UpStart Thrift Store Grant Program. This initiative underscores the store’s commitment to fostering entrepreneurial growth within Washington County.

Launched in the summer of 2022, the UpStart Thrift Store is a project designed to generate resources for community support. By selling donated clothes and home goods at affordable prices, the store allocates all proceeds—after covering rent and utilities—to fund Kiva loans and small business grants.

UpStart Thrift Store awards needs-based grants starting at $500 to small business owners in Washington County. The UpStart Thrift Store team works alongside Startup Junkie Foundation leadership to select the awardees based on the merits of their application.

This year, grants were awarded to Zach Taylor of Fat Top Farm and Diana Michelle of Fine Art of Massage. Both are repeat borrowers from Kiva Northwest Arkansas, a Startup Junkie program offering interest-free, crowdfunded, business loans, and their ongoing engagement with the program demonstrated their commitment to positive community impact.

Zach Taylor received $3,000 funding to implement geothermal improvements on his farm, which will significantly reduce the carbon footprint of his operations while enhancing productivity. 

“With the upgrades I have been able to implement on our property, I expect to pay 40% of what I used to pay for heating and cooling my fruiting rooms,” Zach explained. “The money I save will be an investment in the future for this company. I am forever grateful for this program.” His farm, known for its sustainable agriculture practices, currently produces up to 500 pounds of mushrooms weekly.

Diana Michelle, a dedicated photographer and licensed massage therapist, was awarded a $2,000 grant to upgrade the facilities at her massage studio. The funding will help install a new carpet, enhancing the studio’s atmosphere and creating a more comfortable environment for her clients.

 “My space looks much better with the new carpet installed and has increased the appeal of my massage studio. I am so appreciative for the help programs like UpStart Thrift Store and Kiva Northwest Arkansas have provided me,” Diana shared.

These grants have not only provided immediate financial relief but also contribute to the long-term success of these local businesses. By supporting entrepreneurs like Zach and Diana, UpStart Thrift Store plays a crucial role in strengthening the Washington County business community and driving economic development.

The UpStart Thrift Store Grant Program accepts applications on a quarterly basis, with the current application period now open. If you are interested in applying for a grant, please visit UpStart Thrift Store for more information and to submit your application.

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About Upstart Thrift Store: UpStart Thrift Store is your go-to destination for unique finds and treasures, nestled at 235 Main Street in Farmington. Just a stone’s throw away from Fayetteville, heading westbound on Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard, we are more than just a thrift store. We’re a community cornerstone, supporting innovators, entrepreneurs, and small business owners through the Startup Junkie Foundation

About Startup Junkie: Startup Junkie is dedicated to empowering entrepreneurs and fostering innovation in Northwest Arkansas. Through events, workshops, and mentorship, we support startups at every stage of their journey.

About Kiva NWA: Kiva NWA, a Fayetteville-based microlending platform facilitated by the Startup Junkie Foundation and supported by the Walton Family Foundation, provides financial access to entrepreneurs in Northwest Arkansas. The program focuses on community-based lending and character over credit, offering interest-free business loans ranging from $1,000 to $15,000.