ARKADELPHIA, AR, July 01, 2025: The Arkadelphia Regional Economic Development Alliance and Area Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce the recipients of the 2025 Renew Arkadelphia Exterior Renovation Grant. This year’s selected businesses include Clark County Farm Bureau, JavaPrimo Coffee House Café & More, Mary & Martha’s Florist and Gifts, My Favorite Things, Shuffield Music Company, and Slim & Shorty’s. The grant awarded to Slim & Shorty’s was made possible through a collaborative partnership with the Downtown Arkadelphia Network.
“Investing in the appearance and preservation of our commercial spaces is an investment in the quality of life and economic future of our community,” said Jon Merryman, EVP and Chamber Director of the Arkadelphia Alliance and Area Chamber of Commerce. “Each of these businesses is a staple in our community, and we’re proud to support their continued success.”
The Renew Arkadelphia grant initiative plays a vital role in enhancing Arkadelphia’s economic resilience by empowering local businesses to improve the appearance and longevity of their storefronts. As a 50% matching grant, the program provides financial assistance to help small businesses invest in much-needed exterior upgrades, revitalizing façades, boosting curb appeal, and reinforcing their presence in the community. The Chamber matches business or property owner investments up to $2,500, with the goal of driving more foot traffic, expanding commercial opportunity, and contributing to the city’s long-term economic vitality.
2025 Recipients and Projects:
- Clark County Farm Bureau - A familiar presence in Arkadelphia for over 35 years, Farm Bureau will modernize its signage by removing the current sign near the intersection and installing a new, permanent structure designed to enhance visibility and public appeal.
- JavaPrimo Coffee House Café & More – In business for over 11 years, JavaPrimo will replace the weathered vinyl on its exterior logo signs, originally installed in 2013, to maintain a clean, professional storefront.
- Mary & Martha’s Florist and Gifts – After serving the Arkadelphia area for over 90 years, Mary & Martha’s Florist and Gifts relocated two years ago. This business will improve both appearance and function by removing old concrete and installing new pavement on the 8th Street side, helping to address water flow issues and improve the customer experience.
- My Favorite Things – In business for two years, will remove an outdated canopy and replace it with a new canvas awning to create a more inviting entrance for shoppers.
- Shuffield Music Company – Serving Arkadelphia’s community for over a decade, Shuffield Music will undergo several exterior updates including repainting the building, enclosing a plexiglass window, and replacing a deteriorating rear door with a secure steel alternative.
- Slim & Shorty’s – A Downtown Arkadelphia icon for 13 years, Slim & Shorty’s will replace their current awning, original to the building’s purchase in 2012, with a new, weather-resistant canvas design that aligns with the restaurant’s vibrant and laid-back beach aesthetic. This project is funded in collaboration with the Downtown Arkadelphia Network.
Each of the 2025 recipients brings a unique vision for enhancing their space. By investing in these updates, the Renew Arkadelphia Grant helps ensure that local businesses continue to thrive while also preserving the historic and visual character of our community.
“I am so grateful to receive this grant,” said Robbie Edwards, owner of My Favorite Things. “The new awning and updated logo will be a huge improvement to our storefront and the downtown Arkadelphia area. I’m excited to see our vision come to life and thankful for the support that makes it possible.”
The Arkadelphia Alliance and Chamber is proud to continue investing in the growth and visual appeal of local businesses that define the character and culture of our community.
For more information about the Renew Arkadelphia Exterior Renovation Grant, please contact Jon Merryman via email, jon@arkadelphiaalliance.com, or call (870) 246 – 1460.
