Newark Mayor Ras Baraka and Invest Newark on Wednesday said $1.2 million in funding has been awarded to seven retail businesses as part of the Newark Retail Reactivation Initiative to revitalize Downtown Newark.
“This initiative spurs our progress toward infusing Newark’s downtown with the energy of diverse, local retail entrepreneurship,” Baraka said. “By supporting this vibrant assortment of businesses, we are not only enhancing the economic vitality of our city, but also creating spaces that reflect the rich culture and community spirit of Newark. Together, we are building a brighter, more inclusive future for residents and a dynamic mecca for travelers.”
The initiative was born out of Baraka’s determination to restore the vibrancy of downtown and reduce vacancies.
The Retail Reactivation Initiative is supported by Urban Enterprise Zone funds made available thanks to the reform law spearheaded by the late Lt. Gov. Sheila Y. Oliver. It offers financial support for fit-out and furniture, fixtures and equipment to Newark-based businesses. The first announcement of grants was made in February, with eight recipients and a total amount awarded of more than $2.35 million.
The second group of grantees consists of the following:
- Melba’s Restaurant, 550 Broad St., $650,000: Owned by Melba McGill Wilson, it was founded in Harlem in 2005. After establishing itself as a premier comfort food destination in New York City, Melba’s chose to open its second location in Downtown Newark. With a commitment to exceptional customer service coupled with great food, Melba’s specializes in Southern classics.
- Grill & Thrill, 772 Broad St., $149,600: Grill & Thrill will specialize in fast, casual Mediterranean cuisine. The restaurant, operated by entrepreneur Kehetrin Alpar, will offer quick and convenient options inspired by the flavors and ingredients of the Mediterranean region, including dishes like falafel, shawarma, hummus and salads, as well as breakfast items and coffee.
- Isle 15, 18 Green St., $127,060: Owned by Stacy Eversley and Deirdresha Wint, this will be an upscale Caribbean restaurant serving food and drinks, activating multiple floors of a currently vacant building. The first floor will be a dining space, while the second floor will be an event venue. The owners previously operated the food truck YamGoWeh, serving Guyanese cuisine at events throughout Essex County.
- Bricks 4 Kidz Essex County, 112 Washington St., $112,000: This center offers STEM-based edutainment classes, activities and parties for children ages 3 to 13 using LEGO bricks and coding programs. The owner, Tara Williams-Harrington, is a lifelong Newark resident. The new facility will include drop-off and learn hours, party rooms, and opportunities for educational trips.
- GlassRoots, 23 William St., $110,000: This nonprofit focuses on igniting the creative and economic vitality of greater Newark through glass arts. The new street-level location in Teacher’s Village will feature visible glassblowing furnaces and provide classes, summer camps, field trips and career development programs for youth and adults.
- Honeypot Montessori, 75 Halsey St., $60,620: This is the first nature and Montessori school in Newark, dedicated to fostering nature-immersive learning experiences for students ages 3 to 6. Founder and Head of School Deja L. Jones brings years of experience in education and youth development. Honeypot is part of the Wildflower Schools network.
- Sweet Jeans Kitchen & Espresso Bar, 494 Broad St., $38,500: A modern café and community space specializing in events and sweet and savory bites. Operated by Michele Harriott, an experienced baker born and raised in Newark, and Victor Joseph Soldano, this will be the pair’s first brick-and-mortar location.
“These grants are not just investments in businesses, but investments in our community’s future,” Marcus Randolph, CEO and president of Invest Newark, said. “Each of these companies bring something unique to Newark, and their collective successes will contribute to the overall vibrancy and economic health of our city.”
