Newark awards $1.2 million to seven city small businesses, supporting growing retail scene

Newark city officials are giving a boost to local businesses, pledging $1.2 million in funding for seven restaurants and organizations as part of a plan to activate its retail corridors.

According to a news release, grants under the Newark Retail Reactivation Initiative are meant to help merchants make exterior and interior improvements of vacant space or purchase furniture, fixtures and equipment. The latest recipients, the second group awarded under the program, included Melba’s Restaurant, Grill & Thrill, Isle 15, Bricks 4 Kidz Essex County, GlassRoots, Honeypot Montessori and Sweet Jeans Kitchen & Espresso Bar.