The Hercules City Council is putting more money into programs that support local shops and restaurants.
Earlier this year, the council approved new funding for two main programs: a gift card program that encourages residents to shop locally and a grant program that helps businesses move into empty storefronts.
‘Shop Hercules’ gift card
The city added $25,000 to the “Shop Hercules” gift card program. This program gives you a 25 percent bonus when you buy a digital gift card to use at local shops. If you buy a card, the city adds extra money to it for free.
The city council also increased the highest amount you can have on a card to $200. You can buy one card every three months through the city’s website. Mayor Chris Kelley noted that while the program began during the pandemic, it is now a permanent way to support the community.
‘Eating and Drinking’ grants
Hercules created a $200,000 grant fund specifically to bring more small businesses to the city. This money helps small business owners move into empty buildings by covering costs like construction, permits, and new equipment. The city divided the funds into three categories based on the size of the space.
The program offers $100,000 for very large locations and $50,000 for mid-sized shops. An additional $50,000 is reserved specifically for new eating and drinking establishments. These grants help owners pay for the high costs of building out a professional kitchen or dining area.
The city will review applications and give out grants on a first-come, first-served basis until the money is gone.
“We are committed to strengthening Hercules’ economy and ensuring that business owners have access to the commercial spaces they need to succeed,” said City Manager Dante Hall. “These funds will help reduce barriers for new local storefronts and bring diverse options to our community.”
Business owners can find the application portal at tinyurl.com/HerculesBAG, and residents can buy gift cards at hercules.yiftee.com.
