Madison– Representative Alex Joers (D-Waunakee), Senator Kelda Roys (D-Madison), and Representative Robyn Vining (D-Wauwatosa) introduced the Mainstreet Bounceback Program Bill, which appropriates $25 million in grants to small businesses opening a new location or expanding operations in a vacant commercial space. Rep. Robyn Vining (D-Wauwatosa) released the following statement:
“Wisconsin is a small business state. As a small business creator myself, I understand what it takes to start and run your own business from the ground up. Small businesses were hit hard by the pandemic–many still feeling those effects today–and now in 2025, small businesses are once again up against extra-tough challenges with rising healthcare costs, lack of affordable and accessible childcare, tariffs, and more.
“The Main Street Bounceback grants assist new or expanding businesses by offsetting costs related to opening or expanding a new location, helping to ensure the long-term success of small businesses and contributing to the fabric of our communities’ vitality. These grants can lower commercial vacancy rates, expand community services, and support family-sustaining jobs.
“99.4% of Wisconsin businesses are small businesses, and nearly half of the state’s workforce is employed by small businesses. The Main Street Bounceback grants are a direct investment in Wisconsin’s communities and long-term economic sustainability.
“Thank you to Representative Alex Joers and Senator Kelda Roys for co-authoring this bill with me. Let’s go big for small businesses, and let’s find common ground for the common good so we can move forward, together.
