Two established Winthrop business owners are hoping to expand their offerings in the next year and are seeking assistance through a federal economic development program.

Kimberly Stoneton, the owner of Bloom Salon on Main Street, hopes to open a new coffee shop next door to her salon, in an empty storefront on Main Street.

Ryan Chamberland, who owns and teaches classes at United Fitness & Martial Arts Studio on Route 133, plans to launch at least two new offerings: a martial arts class for central Mainers with physical and mental disabilities and a fitness class for home-schooled children.

Both Stoneton and Chamberland have been working with the town to secure funding through the federal Community Development Block Grant program, which helps cities with economic development needs.

A public hearing about both projects will be April 3 at a Winthrop Town Council meeting.

Stoneton said she plans to go forward with the new coffee shop even if she doesn’t receive the $30,000 community development grant.

Chamberland is applying for $50,000 in block grant funding to help cover the costs of repairs and renovations to United Fitness & Martial Arts Studio

Charles Eichacker can be contacted at 621-5642 or at:

ceichacker@centralmaine.com