Optimum Business and the Charleston Area Alliance Announce Lifting Up Small Business Grants
Optimum Business will award 25 small businesses each a $5,000 grant to further support the long-term success of small businesses in Kanawha County
CHARLESTON, WV (April 14, 2025) – Optimum Business, the leading provider of fiber internet, mobile, TV, and phone services, along with their partner, the Charleston Area Alliance, today announce that the Lifting Up Small Businesses Grants are open for applications. These grants will directly fund 25 small businesses across Kanawha County. The program will distribute $5,000 grants to each selected business recipient to contribute to the prosperity of the communities where they serve.
“Optimum Business is thrilled to partner with the Charleston Area Alliance to support the vibrant small business in Kanawha County. Optimum is committed to being more than a connectivity provider by investing in individual businesses to support the economic prosperity of this community, said Jen Ostrager, Senior Vice President, Govt & Business, Community Affairs. “When businesses thrive, communities thrive. We’re very much looking forward to supporting the Kanawha community in ways that make an impact.”
“Small businesses are the heartbeat of our community, helping to power our economy and fostering local connections. Through our partnership with Optimum Business and the Lifting Up Small Business Grants, we are empowering these vital enterprises, uplifting our community, and encouraging sustainable growth for years to come." said Mara Boggs, President & CEO of the Charleston Area.
Optimum Business and the Charleston Area Alliance expect to announce the grant recipients later this year. Once the winners are announced, Optimum Business will also host recognition events this summer with local officials and key community partners joining in on the celebrations.
Optimum continues to find new ways to deepen its community presence and connect its customers to what matters most, which includes supporting, understanding, and celebrating what makes each of its local communities unique.
In Kanawha County, Optimum has supported 136 classrooms totaling $61K through our partnership with DonorsChoose, including recently funding $30k of STEM materials to local Kanawha County schools. The company also supported local community groups with donations totaling $20,000 in the last four years, including The Salvation Army Charleston WV Area Command, and The Boys and Girls Club of Charleston and St. Albans.
More information on the Lifting Up Small Business Grants, including submission requirements, can be found here.