SPENCER, IA (Northwestiowanow) — Two Spencer businesses were awarded $10,000 microgrants during the 2026 Spencer Main Street Annual Celebration and Micro Grant Awards Reception.

The event was held at the Bearded Dog Taproom, beginning with a community happy hour followed by a short program highlighting Spencer Main Street’s work and ongoing downtown investment.

Executive Director Nancy Naeve emphasized the importance of continued support from volunteers and local businesses.

This year’s microgrant round looked different than in the past. Seven businesses applied, requesting more than $63,000 in funding. Rather than partially funding several projects, Spencer Main Street awarded two full $10,000 grants to ensure meaningful project completion.

One grant was awarded to Mark Carey of Carey’s Electronics, supporting a major expansion that will add a lighting showroom featuring high-end and smart lighting options.

Carey says work is expected to begin later this summer, with hopes of opening the new space this fall.

The second $10,000 grant went to Kari Roskens of Kari’s Clothing, who plans to use the funding for a long-needed HVAC system replacement at her downtown store.

Spencer Main Street encouraged businesses not selected this round to apply again in future cycles, noting the decision was made to avoid limiting future eligibility while maximizing project impact.