Celina Small Business Grant Program Empowers Local Entrepreneurs

Celina’s thriving small business community just got an exciting boost. Optimum Business, in partnership with the Greater Celina Chamber of Commerce, has launched the Lifting Up Small Business Grants program — a new initiative designed to help local entrepreneurs reach their next level of success. With $125,000 in total funding available, this program represents a major step forward in supporting Celina’s small business ecosystem and strengthening the community’s economic foundation.

Key Takeaways

• 25 Celina-based small businesses will each receive a $5,000 grant.

• Applications open September 8, 2025, and close October 10, 2025.

• The program aims to empower growth, creativity, and community development.

• Eligibility is limited to businesses with 25 or fewer employees within Optimum and Chamber service areas.

Celina Small Business Grant- A Partnership With Purpose 

The Lifting Up Small Business Grants program is more than a financial initiative — it’s a partnership rooted in community spirit. Optimum Business and the Celina Chamber of Commerce have teamed up to directly invest in the people who make Celina special: its small business owners.

As Amanda Seabaugh, Vice President and General Manager at Optimum, shared, “We know that when small businesses thrive, the community thrives.” This initiative embodies that belief, offering real-world financial support to those who drive local innovation and connection.

Jim Scano, Chairman of the Greater Celina Chamber, echoed this enthusiasm: “This partnership allows us to create real opportunities for our local businesses and reaffirms that the Chamber is more committed than ever to helping them succeed.”

Program Details and Eligibility 

The grant program is carefully designed to ensure fairness, accessibility, and community impact. A total of 25 small businesses will each receive $5,000 in funding to be used for meaningful improvements — whether that means upgrading technology, renovating a storefront, enhancing marketing efforts, or expanding customer reach.

To qualify, applicants must have 25 or fewer full-time employees and a physical business location within both Optimum and Chamber service areas. Recipients who aren’t yet Chamber members will need to join before receiving funds — further integrating them into Celina’s strong business network.

How Funds Can Be Used

Optimum and the Chamber are allowing flexibility in how recipients use their grants, as every small business has different needs. Funds can support:

• Storefront Improvements: New signage, landscaping, or remodeling.

• Marketing Initiatives: Website creation, digital advertising, or brand development.

• Professional Support: Consulting, accounting, or business planning services.

This flexibility ensures each business can apply the grant where it matters most — helping them adapt, grow, and better serve the Celina community.

Fueling Growth During a Time of Change

With Celina’s rapid development, local entrepreneurs face rising competition, higher operating costs, and new demands from customers. The Lifting Up Small Business Grants program directly addresses these challenges, helping small business owners stand strong amid change.

As Chamber President Alexis Jackson emphasized, this initiative “gives our local businesses a chance to grow stronger, modernize their operations, and continue adding to the heartbeat of Celina.”

Optimum’s Broader Commitment to Community

Optimum’s dedication to North Texas extends beyond this grant program. The company has invested heavily in education and youth programs, including over $40,000 in classroom funding through DonorsChoose and nearly $16,000 in STEM grants for local robotics teams.

These efforts highlight Optimum’s mission to not just serve communities — but to be an active part of their success.

A Brighter Future for Celina Businesses

The Lifting Up Small Business Grants program represents a shared belief between Optimum and the Celina Chamber: when small businesses win, the entire community benefits. Through this collaboration, Celina entrepreneurs have a unique opportunity to strengthen their operations, invest in their future, and continue shaping the city’s bright and growing landscape.

In short: This is more than a grant — it’s an invitation to dream bigger, grow stronger, and keep Celina’s small business spirit shining bright.

To Apply For The Lifting Up Small Business Grant, Click HERE.

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