FHLBank of Chicago Awards $15,000 Grant to Blaise’s Repair & Alignment

This week, the Federal Home Loan Bank of Chicago (FHLBank Chicago) awarded Blaise’s Repair & Alignment, LLC a grant of $15,000 through its Community First® Accelerate Grants for Small Business program. FHLBank Chicago offers grants of up to $30,000 to eligible small businesses to advance economic opportunity in the communities it serves.

The grant funds aided in the purchase of a Kubota skid steer for moving disabled vehicles into the shop so repair work can be performed inside rather than out in the elements. The skid steer will also be used for grounds maintenance and snow removal.

Blaise’s Repair & Alignment provides basic auto services such as oil changes, as well as more advanced auto mechanic work. They take pride in serving the community with honest and reliable auto services. Their customers range from area residents to local businesses, as well as the occasional tourist. Blaise’s also provides services for local municipalities, such as the Village of Trempealeau, the Trempealeau Police Department, Fire Department, and the US Post Office. All employees are local and Blaise’s partners with the local high school to provide an apprenticeship position every year for aspiring mechanics.

“I want to express my sincere gratitude to Federal Home Loan Bank of Chicago and Bluff View Bank for awarding me the Community First Accelerate Grant. It is an incredible honor to be selected, and I am truly appreciative of the support this grant provides.” says owner Blaise Stegemeyer.

Through FHLBank Chicago’s member institutions, like Bluff View Bank, Accelerate Grants assist the growth and development of small businesses in Illinois and Wisconsin. All grant recipients are small businesses that make a difference in their community, and funds are intended for the following purposes:
•  The purchase or improvement of property
•  The purchase of machinery, tools or equipment
•  The purchase of inventory, materials, or supplies
•  Workforce development or training
•  New or upgraded technology

“Small businesses play an integral role in local communities in driving economic growth, from creating jobs to fostering community development,” said Katie Naftzger, Senior Vice President, Community Investment Officer, FHLBank Chicago. “As a leader in the housing and community development space, FHLBank Chicago recognizes that affordable housing isn’t just about the homes themselves—it’s about ensuring entire communities have what they need to thrive, including economic opportunities for the residents and small businesses who call them home.”

The grant was sponsored by Bluff View Bank.

“We are honored to support individuals and organizations that are making a meaningful impact in the communities we serve. Blaise and Mianna are great examples of that, and we couldn’t be happier to present this grant to them. This grant was the final push they needed to make the purchase after years of research and consideration.” said Lindsay Spitzer, Bluff View Bank President & CEO.

For more information on Accelerate Grants and eligibility, visit www.fhlbc.com.