The recipient of the 2023 Isringhausen DRIVE Grant has been named: Ceramics Made by Rosie. Led by Rosie Gale, a full-time potter originally from the U.K., Ceramics Made by Rosie specializes in hand-thrown mugs, bowls, planters, and other ceramics, designed and made by Rosie herself. Her pieces are already available online, in local stores, and at outdoor art fairs. Rosie intends to use the $20,000 award to open a physical storefront with a space for ceramics classes.

The announcement and check presentation were made at Downtown Springfield Inc.’s annual awards and dinner, held at the Bank Springfield (BoS) Center on Wednesday, October 18.

The inaugural Isringhausen DRIVE Grant (short for “Downtown Reinvestment Effort”) was awarded last year to The Wakery, a late-night non-alcoholic bar and coffee house, located at 5 W Old State Capitol. Owner Elizabeth Wake put the grant money to use by investing in a behind-the-bar refrigerator, outdoor signage, and advertising. The Wakery opened its doors to the public in the first quarter of 2023.

The Isringhausen DRIVE Grant benefits new and soon-to-open small businesses in the downtown area. It was created in collaboration with Downtown Springfield, Inc. (DSI), a local non-profit organization dedicated to increasing economic and cultural vitality in Springfield's historic downtown.

Follow Isringhausen Imports and DSI on social media for more information on how to apply for future DRIVE Grants.