Milwaukee Independent Restaurant Coalition supports a fairer, more economically sustainable, and more inclusive restaurant and bar community in the Greater Milwaukee area. Together, the workers, managers, and owners of independent restaurants and bars work through the MIRC to have a united voice in addressing the legislative and ethical issues that affect our industry. We are farmers, artisans, cooks, trade workers, and bartenders working together to make Milwaukee a better place for everyone.

The Purpose

Through the lens of the COVID-19 pandemic, we see clearly the precariousness of work in the hospitality industry. Small businesses need support to provide relief for their workers, especially tipped workers. Independent restaurants and bars in Milwaukee are responsible for thousands of jobs as well as contribute to the economic vitality of the city. Thus, owners and workers join together to ensure that we may continue to serve Milwaukee and its visitors.

MIRC Owners

Join The Coaliton

Introducing:

MIRC Relief Grants!

Milwaukee loves their independent restaurants and we know this time has not been easy for any independent operators! As federal and state relief funds run out, Milwaukee Independent Restaurant Coalition is rolling out a new micro-grant program to help our local restaurants make it through. Ten $1,000 grants will be awarded every time our relief fund reaches $10,000 – help us replenish the relief fund by buying MIRC merchandise or by directly donating below!

The first grant application phase is now closed while we await more funds.

Grant recipients will be chosen randomly from wheelofnames.com on September 7th, and funds will be distributed that day.

To qualify, your restaurant must be independently owned, a MIRC member, and located in Milwaukee County. Become a member HERE.

RULES AND PROCEDURES:

One entry per restaurant. To enter we need the name of your restaurant and the contact info of the owner/manager. If you are awarded the grant, we will need your bank account information to transfer the money.

If you do not receive the grant this time, your restaurant will remain eligible for the next grant period – YOU DO NOT HAVE TO ENTER AGAIN.

That’s all. This is a grant program designed by restaurant owners for other restaurant owners. There are no hoops to jump through, no long explanations to give, nothing you have to prove about how you spent it. Fix your equipment, buy PPE, use it to make payroll or buy products or whatever you need! Stay strong, Milwaukee!”