Batavia Restaurant 1 Of 12 In IL To Win $10K Small Business Grant

BATAVIA, IL — Bocaditos Cafe was one of 12 businesses in Illinois to be awarded a $10,000 grant to "continue making a meaningful impact in their communities."

Bocaditos was selected as a 2025 recipient of the Backing Small Business Grant from Main Street America and American Express. The nationwide initiative awards 400 grants of $10,000 to locally significant small businesses across the country.

Located in the heart of downtown Batavia at 11 N. Batavia Ave., Bocaditos is an Argentinian cafe known for its empanadas, chimichurri sauce and desserts.

"We're thrilled to celebrate Bocaditos for this well-deserved recognition," Kristen Desler, assistant director of Batavia MainStreet, said in a statement. "Grants like this can be transformational for small businesses, giving owners the opportunity to invest in tools and resources that help them grow and better serve their customers."

Bocaditos used the grant funds to purchase new equipment, including an espresso machine, ice machine and small oven.

"These additions have allowed the cafe to expand its breakfast and treat offerings, elevate its coffee program, increase operational efficiency, and train staff in new preparation techniques—enhancements that directly benefit customers and strengthen the business's long-term success," Batavia Mainstreet, the not-for-profit that works to enhance downtown Batavia, wrote in a news release.

Previous Batavia recipients of the Backing Small Business Grant include Limestone Coffee and Tea, Sturdy Shelter Brewing and Sidecar Supper Club. In 2023, New Moon Vegan was also awarded the grant in addition to a $30,000 enhancement.