New MMA training center gets $125K in grants
The newly opened Long Island MMA Center in West Babylon was assisted by business grants from PSEG Long Island and National Grid.
The training center, which held a grand opening ribbon-cutting celebration last week, received a PSEG Long Island Main Street Revitalization grant of $74,625, while National Grid provided a $50,000 grant.
PSEG Long Island’s Main Street Revitalization grants are available for businesses that complete projects to help improve the economic stability and growth of a municipality. Long Island MMA also qualified for another PSEG Long Island small business incentive because they moved into a building that had been vacant for more than a year. The building was unused for five years and had become an eyesore in the community. PSEG Long Island’s Vacant Space Revival program provides up to $10,000 in electric bill discounts for a new business’ first year, which is often financially difficult.
“PSEG Long Island is proud to support Long Island MMA Center as it officially opens,” David Lyons, interim president and COO of PSEG Long Island, said in a company statement. “Our economic development grants help small business owners like Gregg, Ryan and Brian realize their entrepreneurial dreams, and we are so glad to be part of their success by providing grant funding and bill credits to them. We wish them continued success both in and out of the octagon.”
Gregg DePasquale, co-owner of Long Island MMA Center, said the business is grateful for the support of the community, town, PSEG Long Island and National Grid.
“Turning this old warehouse into our state-of-the-art MMA gym has been a labor of love for my partners and me,” DePasquale said in the statement. “The funding from the utility companies and bill credits from PSEG Long Island will go a long way in helping us achieve future success.”
Niles French, National Grid senior representative of Economic Development, congratulated the new business and Babylon Supervisor Rich Schaffer for making the project a priority.
“National Grid is dedicated to supporting small businesses who have shown a strong commitment to their community,” French said in the statement. “As someone who practices MMA, I know how impactful a facility like this can be. They have transformed this building into a beautiful new space, provided jobs and now Gregg and his team are training kids by providing them with skills and confidence. Together we are building a cleaner, stronger, and healthier community for Long Island.”
