The Economic Development Committee of South Padre Island met last Tuesday to announce the 2021 Sand Dollars for Success grant competition winners.

In the existing business category:

1st place: Cafe Karma.

Granted with $17,700, Café Karma will use their funds toward new espresso machines.

2nd place: Isla Tours.

With the $10,000 grant, Isla Tours will enhance their dolphin watch and eco-tourism waiting area.

For the new business category:

Puka Café is the winner for the new business category earning $10,000 for startup costs associated with Ms. Sarah Truman and her planned cafe with pastries, healthy food to go, and art classes in the evenings. Sarah Truman is a graduate of the 1st class from the Art Business Incubator program (ABI).

"All winners have one year from the award date to expend the funds," said Lapeyre.

Executive Director Darla Lapeyre encourages new candidates to apply in the following grant competition opening in January 2022.