County Executive David Crowley Celebrates National Small Business Week With New Small Business Supported by Milwaukee County Grant Program
Crowley’s administration delivered $10,000 in grant funding for Twelve29 Lounge in South Milwaukee as part of his Building Bridges small business development initiative
SOUTH MILWAUKEE – In recognition of National Small Business Week, Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley celebrated the ribbon cutting of a new small business, Twelve29 Lounge, that was awarded $10,000 in grant funding as part of his Building Bridges Program that activates commercial corridors, grows the local economy, and adds value to the community. Crowley was joined in South Milwaukee by the owners of the business, state and local officials, and regional business leaders.
County Executive Crowley’s Building Bridges Program provides technical support and resources to small businesses across Milwaukee County to enhance economic development and commercial corridor activation efforts. The goal is to increase available resources to establish or expand brick-and-mortar businesses in Milwaukee County.
“My administration continues working to build bridges between entrepreneurs, local governments, and community organizations to fuel economic development in Milwaukee County. Through my Building Bridges Program, we delivered grant funding and technical assistance directly into the hands of local small businesses, so they have the tools to succeed,” said County Executive Crowley. “I am proud we are witnessing the positive impact of this initiative with a new small business opening their doors in South Milwaukee. At a time when affordability is top of mind for folks across Milwaukee County, we will continue working to activate vacant storefronts, create jobs, and uplift small businesses throughout our community.”
One of the Building Bridges grant recipients is Twelve29 Lounge, which aims to be the premier destination for social gatherings and fun experiences in the heart of downtown South Milwaukee. Owners Audra Dzelili and Stephanie Morgan developed a partnership to create a welcoming space where all patrons can enjoy quality drinks, mocktails, and exceptional service close to home. By focusing on affordability and the growing alcohol-free client base, Twelve29 aims to foster a sense of community and diversity, generating economic activity and growth in South Milwaukee.
“Opening Twelve29 Lounge is about more than creating a place to enjoy a drink — it’s creating a gathering place that brings people together. We believe small businesses play a vital role in building stronger communities, and we’re honored to be part of the continued revitalization and growth happening in South Milwaukee. We are grateful for the support from Milwaukee County, the City of South Milwaukee, The Bucyrus Foundation, our local contractors and everyone who helped bring this vision to life,” said Audra Dzelili and Stephanie Morgan, Owners of Twelve29 Lounge.
Twelve29 Lounge was also supported by the City of South Milwaukee with up to $70,000 in Bucyrus Foundation grant funds for building upgrades and improvements.
“South Milwaukee welcomes Twelve29 Bar and Lounge as a vibrant new addition to our downtown, bringing new life to another storefront. We appreciate the investment and commitment shown by both the business and property owner, and we’re grateful for the Bucyrus Foundation funds that helped make this project possible,” said South Milwaukee Mayor Brett Briesemeister.
For more information on the Building Bridges Program, please visit the website or connect with Milwaukee County’s Small Business Liaison at Lisa.Sullivan@milwaukeecountywi.gov.
NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. While it is believed to be reliable, Urban Milwaukee does not guarantee its accuracy or completeness.
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