BELMONT — Gov. Tony Evers awarded more than $27 million in grants to 204 event venues and live event small businesses throughout the state as part of a $140 million investment to support Wisconsin’s tourism and entertainment industries, according to an Evers news release.

A Darlington business is among the area grant recipients.

“These businesses play a critical role in building a strong economy as they bring people together from all over the state and country for weddings, family reunions, business conferences, and so much more,” said Evers Dec. 21. “From Belmont to Washington Island, these funds will help bolster more than 200 small businesses and event venues across our state, which are an essential part of our communities and our state’s entertainment industries.” 

“So many faced challenges over the last two years, and now as we head into the holiday season, these grants are giving our communities an extra reason to celebrate,” said Wisconsin Department of Administration Secretary Joel Brennan.

The event venue and live event small business assistance grants were created to address the revenue shortfalls experienced by event venues and small businesses that cater to live events during the pandemic. The combined programs are funded by the federal American Rescue Plan Act and administered by DOA. Applications for the grants opened Sept. 16 and closed Oct. 15. 

Southwest Wisconsin recipients included: Event Venue Assistance Grants: Pari Property LLC, Belmont, $200,000; Just Jake, Darlington, $9,235; Holiday Events LLC, Potosi, $90,923; Center Lanes Inc., Richland Center, $200,000; Spring Valley Inc., Spring Green, $200,000; Vernon County Agricultural Society, Viroqua, $200,000.

Live Event Small Business Assistance Program: Pari Property LLC, Belmont, $200,000; Just Jake, Darlington, $9,235; Kickapoo Valley Acoustic Music Association, La Farge, $78,009.77; Sugarland Events LLC, Mazomanie, $200,000; Holiday Events LLC, Potosi, $90,923; Center Lanes Inc., Richland Center, $200,000; Spring Valley Inc., Spring Green, $200,000; Superior Executive Services, Verona, $200,000; Vernon County Agricultural Society, Viroqua, $200,000