[River Falls, WI – Sept. 12, 2024] – This week, the Federal Home Loan Bank of Chicago (FHLBank Chicago) awarded 3 Schweet Sisters a grant of fifteen thousand dollars through its Community First® Accelerate Grants for Small Business program. FHLBank Chicago offers grants to eligible small businesses to advance economic opportunity in the communities it serves.

3 Schweet Sisters is a beloved local bakery and gift shop in River Falls.  Known for its delicious, handcrafted sweet treats and warm, welcoming atmosphere. The Store is owned by River Falls resident Samantha Cain, who has a passion for baking and providing our small town with gift options for every occasion.  The Bakery offers a variety of desserts made from scratch using high-quality ingredients which reflects their commitment to the community. Their creative confections and dedication to customer service have made them a local favorite, bringing joy and sweetness to every occasion.

Through FHLBank Chicago’s member institutions, like First National Bank of River Falls, 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 First National Bank of River Falls, which has a long-standing commitment to supporting local businesses and fostering community development in the River Falls area.

"We were thrilled to nominate 3 Schweet Sisters for this grant! Not only did they meet the rigorous criteria of demonstrating strong community impact and economic growth potential, but their passion for River Falls truly stood out," said Melissa Godden, Vice President - Commercial Loans at First National Bank of River Falls. "This program is all about supporting local entrepreneurs who bring innovation, creativity, and positive energy to our town, and 3 Schweet Sisters is a perfect example of that. We can’t wait to see the amazing things they’ll achieve next!"

3 Schweet Sisters has consistently demonstrated a commitment to quality and service, which is why we knew they were the perfect candidate for this grant," added Matt Russell, Executive Vice President & Chief Credit Officer at First National Bank of River Falls. "We are excited to see how this funding will help them grow and continue to positively impact our community."

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

 

 

About First National Bank of River Falls

 

First National Bank of River Falls is an independently owned and operated community bank in Western Wisconsin, founded in 1904 with locations in River Falls and Prescott. They are a member of the Independent Community Bankers Association and Wisconsin Bankers Association. First National Bank of River Falls strives to exceed customer expectations with integrity and commitment. Holding all employees to this high standard is why First National Bank of River Falls has made such an impact in its communities. Visit www.fnbrf.com to learn more. ©2024 Member FDIC. Equal Housing Lender.

 

About the Federal Home Loan Bank of Chicago

 

FHLBank Chicago is a regional bank in the Federal Home Loan Bank System. FHLBanks are government-sponsored enterprises created by Congress to ensure access to low -cost funding for their member financial institutions, with a focus on providing solutions that support the housing and community development needs of members’ customers. FHLBank Chicago is a self-capitalizing cooperative, owned by its Illinois and Wisconsin members, including commercial banks, credit unions, insurance companies, savings institutions and community development financial institutions. To learn more about FHLBank Chicago, please visit fhlbc.com. “Community First” is a registered trademark of the Federal Home Loan Bank of Chicago

 

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