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Studio Yogi – NOF Feature Project in South Shore

08/08/2023|SomerCor|Chicago, Client Success Stories, Fitness/Recreation, NOF Grant

Company Profile

The idea for Studio Yogi was born when Julia Perkins was diagnosed with osteoarthritis at age 50. She gravitated toward yoga as way to stay active within her current health limitations. Yoga was game changer for her, but she had to travel outside of her South Shore community for classes. That started Julia’s mission to bring a yoga studio to her neighborhood – a place for people to come to as they are, where they are, and how they are.

Neighborhood Opportunity Fund Grant Impact

Studio Yoga was awarded a $250,000 Neighborhood Opportunity Fund grant. The project scope transformed four empty storefronts into a nearly 6,500 sqft facility dedicated to the health and wellness of South Shore residents.

“The NOF grant, along with my personal equity, paved the way for me to approach financial institutions to gain support for Studio Yogi.” said owner, Julia Perkins. “When we experienced challenges with the project timeline, SomerCor worked with me and my team every step of the way. The NOF grant and SomerCor’s support was the first step in the realization of my vison.”

Eligible project costs covered by the grant included demolition, roofing replacement, masonry and facade repairs, interior buildout (framing and drywall), new flooring, plumbing, electrical, and HVAC throughout, hardware and finishes.

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Studio Yogi is Open for Business:

Studio Yogi is open and teaching students. Visit www.studioyogi.com to learn more or drop by 1840 East 71st Street to take a class.

Learn More About the Neighborhood Opportunity Fund

The City of Chicago Neighborhood Opportunity Fund generates revenue from downtown developments to finance permanent building improvements for small businesses and nonprofits. Administered by SomerCor, NOF grants are for commercial property acquisition, improvement or new construction and can range up to $250,000. If you have a vision to strengthen the commercial corridors in Chicago’s South, Southwest and West Sides, click here to learn more about the program.