ATHENS – AMBL Studios, a multi-disciplinary architecture and design firm based in downtown Athens, Alabama, has been selected as a recipient of an Amex Shop Small® Grant from American Express® and Main Street America.
The grant will provide AMBL Studios with $20,000 in funding to build out its fabrication shop with the purchase of a laser cutter and to enhance the studio’s front reception area with built-in banquette-style seating and product display shelving.
“This grant is a real catalyst for us,” said Brad Mallette, owner of AMBL Studios. “The laser cutter opens up a whole new world of what we can explore and make, custom pieces both large and small. It lets us dig into R&D and build out a retail side of our business that we’ve been dreaming about since our inception.”
Mallette says the goal is to make the space more welcoming for the people who walk through the doors. AMBL Studios will host an open house this fall to give the community a firsthand look at what the machine can do.
The recognition also resonated with leaders at Athens Main Street who have watched AMBL Studios become a creative anchor in downtown Athens.
“AMBL Studios is exactly the kind of creative, entrepreneurial business that makes downtown Athens special,” said Tere Richardson, Executive Director of Athens Main Street. “We’re thrilled to see Brad and his team earn this national recognition, and we can’t wait to watch them grow. This grant is a testament to the talent and innovation thriving in our district.”
Local business and economic development leaders echoed the significance of the investment for the Athens-Limestone County entrepreneur and innovation community.
Kat Greene, Carlie Belle Winter, and Brad Mallette with the new laser cutter
“We’re so proud to celebrate AMBL Studios on this well-deserved honor,” said Pammie Jimmar, President and CEO of the Athens-Limestone County Chamber of Commerce. “Investments like this one don’t just help a single business, they strengthen our entire local economy.”
“Small businesses are the backbone of Limestone County’s economy, and AMBL Studios is a shining example of homegrown innovation,” said Bethany Shockney, President and CEO of the Limestone County Economic Development Association. “We’re proud to see a local business recognized on a national stage, and we look forward to seeing how this investment helps AMBL Studios expand its capabilities and reach.”
City and county leaders shared in the celebration of one of downtown’s standout small businesses.
“This is exactly the kind of investment that keeps Athens moving forward,” said Athens Mayor Ronnie Marks. “Brad and the team at AMBL Studios are creating something special downtown, and we’re proud to see national partners recognize the talent and creativity we have right here in Athens.”
“Limestone County is growing because of businesses like AMBL Studios,” said Collin Daly, Chair of the Limestone County Commission. “This grant is a well-earned recognition of Brad’s hard work and creativity, and it’s a win for our entire county.”
The program was initially launched with a $5 million contribution to support 250 small businesses in honor of America’s 250th anniversary. Through a Small Business Saturday giving pledge, an additional $1 was given to the grant program for eligible transactions made on Small Business Saturday, and American Express contributed an additional $5.1 million, expanding the program’s reach and impact to small businesses and the communities they serve.
The 505 recipients reflect the vitality of U.S. small businesses, spanning industries from retail and food service to healthcare and professional services. Grant funding will enable recipients to grow and innovate by expanding operations, investing in critical upgrades, and introducing new offerings.
“Small businesses play a vital role in our communities,” said Jennifer Skyler, Chief Corporate Affairs Officer, American Express. “The Shop Small Grants Program builds on our longstanding commitment to small businesses, which began with Small Business Saturday, by putting meaningful investment behind the people and places that drive local impact.”
“At Main Street America, we believe that supporting entrepreneurs and small businesses builds community wealth and a culture of innovation – yet, far too often, this vision isn’t realized due to a variety of factors, including lack of access to resources and funding,” said Erin Barnes, President and CEO, Main Street America. “This is why we are so proud to partner with American Express on a program that provides meaningful support to small business owners working to strengthen their livelihoods and their communities.”
A full list of this year’s recipients is available at https://mainstreet.org/the-
Media Release/Blake Williams, TMP
Communication & Research Specialist
Limestone County Economic Development Association
