EAU CLAIRE, WI -The Clearwater Development Corporation has donated over $30,000 to Downtown Eau Claire, Inc. (DECI) for the purpose of establishing a grant program for downtown businesses to use toward existing buildings, renovations, and other bricks and mortar type projects. The expectation is that the majority of the funds will be distributed within three years.

"We are very honored to receive the donation and are excited to create a grant program that will help our downtown businesses. We appreciate the confidence that Clearwater has shown in DECI by awarding these funds to us," stated Ken Van Es, Treasurer of DECI. DECI is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting the development of business, housing, and cultural resources and activities within downtown Eau Claire.

The Clearwater Development Corporation was formed in 1996 as a partnership between the City of Eau Claire and Xcel Energy. Its purpose was to improve economic and business conditions in the City Center of Eau Claire and it carried out this mission through a loan program. Upon dissolving the corporation, the board decided to make a donation with its remaining funds to continue advancing the growth and development of downtown Eau Claire.

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