Tucson, AZ – (June 28, 2023) - The Tucson Metro Chamber is thrilled to announce that it has awarded $100,000 to 11 deserving businesses across all 6 Wards through grants ranging from $5,000 to $10,000 as a part of the Chamber’s Coalition Against Retail Theft (CART) program. In partnership with Tucson’s Ward 4 office of Councilwoman Nikki Lee, the Chamber received $100,000 in American Rescue Plan funds to provide local businesses with the resources to install fundamental crime prevention features such as lighting, security systems, technology enhancements, training, defensive architecture, property cleanup, signage, etc. The Grant Application received an unprecedented response, resulting in over $250,000 in funding requests from local businesses.
We are pleased to announce the grant recipients as follows: Ironwood Financial, MagMod, RNR Tire Express, Mama Louisa’s Italian Restaurant and Catering, TMM Family Services, Lieder Digital, The Maverick, Tucson Symphony Orchestra, FORS Architecture + Interiors, Copper Spoke Cycles, and Sonoran Stitch Factory.
The recipients will use the funds for various property protection and crime prevention features. Projects will include installing new security systems, cameras, and network attached storage along with doors, lighting improvements, and property repairs. Sonoran Stitch Factory owner, Erica Yngve, told the Chamber, “The Business Property Damage Repair Prevention Program Grant is very impactful for a small business such as Sonoran Stitch Factory. I can provide more safety and security for my staff and clients and the students I train here after hours and on weekends. New lighting, cameras, and motion detectors will improve my building tremendously and demonstrate Sonoran Stitch Factory and the Tucson Metro Chamber's commitment to improving the living and workspaces in our community."
"I would like to thank Council Member Lee once again for her initiative in helping to find creative and meaningful ways to provide businesses with the means to alleviate the burden placed on them by petty crime and vandalism. As a bold advocate for Tucson businesses, the Chamber will continue to explore additional funding opportunities to grow this program in the future,” said Michael Guymon, President & CEO at the Tucson Metro Chamber.
City of Tucson Ward 4 Council Member, Nikki Lee, stated, "In order to effectively address crime within our community, it is vital that we look holistically at the far-reaching impacts it has on the fabric of Tucson. By investing in local businesses through the Ward 4 allocation of ARPA funds, we not only create a more vibrant and resilient economy but also foster a sense of ownership and shared responsibility that can actively contribute to reducing crime and its repercussions. The success of our community lies in our collective ability to understand the complexities of crime and work together to create safe, prosperous environments for all. Thank you to the Tucson Metro Chamber for their collaboration and leadership."
The response received by this grant signifies the need experienced within our community. The Tucson Metro Chamber is proud to use these funds in its commitment to equip Tucson businesses with the resources that they need to continue thriving. The Chamber seeks additional funding opportunities from various jurisdictions and organizations to expand the program's reach and continue supporting needy businesses. We further encourage business community members to join the Tucson Metro Chamber’s Coalition Against Retail Theft as it continues to make strides in creating a thriving and business-friendly community in Tucson.