As a grassroots project that generates a river of nickels to help finance new businesses in Reno approaches its third year, it’s widening its sources of funding.
The Reno Rebuild project was launched in 2012 by Michael Connolly, Chris Kahl and Zach Cage, owners of Legends Grill, Sports & Spirits in south Reno as well as the Sierra Tap House, Ole Bridge Pub and The Brewer’s Cabinet in downtown Reno.
They pledged to contribute 5 cents from every transaction at their businesses to create the Reno Rebuild fund.
Last summer, the fund made its first loan — $20,000 to help Barrie Schuster launch her Café DeLuxe at 1690 S. Wells Ave.
Since then, fund has accumulated about $20,000 more and will be opening the application process this spring. Along with the continued funding from the restaurant owners, the available funds also are boosted by repayments from previous borrowers.
The loan fund, which has won IRS approval of its tax-exempt status, has drawn cash contributions from Western Nevada Supply, Java Jungle and Jungle Vino, Allied Washoe Petroleum and Morrey Distributing.
Connolly said Reno Rebuild also builds the loan fund when it’s designated as the beneficiary of a corporate event.
Among the upcoming events is Strange Brew Festival, billed as a celebration of craft beers. It’s scheduled from 3-9 p.m. May 3 at The Brewer’s Cabinet, 475 S. Arlington Ave.
Along with The Brewer’s Cabinet, participating breweries will include Great Basin, Silver Peak, Under the Rose, BJ’s, Brewing Lair, Brasserie, Mammoth, Stoney Head and Joseph James.
(For ticket information see www.thebrewerscabinet.com.)
