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Westborough EDC approves two small-business assistance grants for downtown maker space and dog groomer
Summary
The Economic Development Committee approved a $5,000 grant for CraftLab Westborough and a business-assistance award recorded in the minutes for Polish Pup; both applicants described personal investment and planned upgrades to support downtown vitality.
Westborough — The Town of Westborough Economic Development Committee approved two business-assistance grants during its July meeting, voting to fund a downtown maker space and a dog-grooming business.
CraftLab Westborough: The committee approved a motion to award CraftLab $5,000. Owner and founder Leon Amaris said he has invested "$8,000 of my own savings" and expects to "invest another 15,000" to complete electrical, window and visibility upgrades for a studio at 3 Summer Street. Committee members voiced support, noting the maker space aligns with downtown planning goals and can help draw visitors during later hours.
Polish Pup: Elizabeth Dumas, who identified herself as owner of Polish Pup grooming downtown, requested funding to replace equipment and improve air quality and operations. The minutes record the Polish Pup application identifier as 486224 and the committee approved the motion; the transcript records the approved amount in the meeting record as "48.62.24" (as spoken during the roll call). Dumas explained she currently launders towels at home and asked for a ventless washer-dryer, a quieter Aeolus dryer, a dehumidifier and an upgraded bathing system to improve safety and sustainability.
Votes and next steps: Each motion was moved, seconded and approved in roll-call fashion. Chair directed both applicants to work with staff (Laura Crawford) on permits and next steps. The committee did not record additional conditions in the public motion; applicants were reminded to secure any permits (board of health, signage) required for extended hours or food/drink service.
Why it matters: The grants are targeted, early-stage investments for small independent downtown businesses that committee members said could increase foot traffic and diversify downtown evening activity. The EDC also emphasized that applicants should coordinate with town staff on regulatory approvals before offering new services.
