EDA Housing Coordinator Heather Bregel presents Amy Merches and Jen Gilman of Radiant Skin Studio and Massage with a $10,000 small business incentive grant.

NEW ULM — Radiant Skin Studio and Massage received a small business Incentive grant Wednesday from the New Ulm Economic Development Authority (EDA).

The small business incentive grant is for $10,000 and is used to provide reimbursement for eligible New Ulm businesses in their first year of operation.

Located at 1106 S. Broadway, Suite C, Radiant Skin Studio and Massage was opened by esthetician Amy Merches last year, with massage therapist Jen Gilman also renting space in the studio.

The studio offers a variety of skin care treatments including facials, full body waxes and cryoskin care. Gilman offers several massage treatments including reflexology, Swedish, deep tissue, hot stone and aroma touch.

Merches said the grant will go a long way to helping the business. Starting any type of salon businesses requires capital to cover licensing and other fees.

The small business incentive program was started by the EDA in 2019. Each year $50,000 is put into the program to assist new businesses. Due to the popularity of the program the EDA decided to put $60,000 in the fund for 2022.