E-bike Rentals
Applicant Name
Luke Steven Hanson
Applicant Organization
Woodstock Wheels
Email Address
Phone Number
8022805410
Mailing Address
43 Eaton PL APT 2
Woodstock
VT
05091
Organization Website
Grant Request Summary
Greetings from Woodstock Wheels!
Starting in May of 2021 I began a business renting out electric bicycles to the broader Woodstock community and tourists. It was a great success with many fully booked weekends and happy customers. I provided all upfront costs including a $10,000 loan which paid for 11 e-bikes, helmets, bike tools/supplies, merchandise, marketing costs, etc. The Woodstock Recreation Center was generous enough to let me use their space to run my business.
This grant will provide me with the funds I will need to grow and show people a new and exciting way to explore our village and surrounding communities. I will be able to purchase a larger quantity and better quality e-bikes as-well-as expand my network, keep up with proper maintenance, and pursue a variety of ideas to provide customers with a unique and memorable experience of Vermont’s remarkable landscape.
Project Budget
$20,000 - $24,999
Desired Grant Amount
$15,000 - $19,999
Other Funding Sources
I will provide any remaining costs and a personal loan (if needed)
Project Timeframe
03/01/2022
How will this project benefit the economic and community development of Woodstock?
Woodstock Wheels not only gives customers a healthy and intimate way to explore our beautiful Green Mountain State, but brings them to the doorstep of local businesses furthering the economic growth of our community. I provide pre-mapped routes using Google Maps that include local shops, general stores, farm stands, maple stands, national/state parks, vistas, and many other "must see" locations during their visit to Woodstock. I've received numerous social media tags of customers' photographs or blogs about their Woodstock adventures which draws yet more customers, enhancing both my business along with many others in our community.
Which EDC Working Grouop Objectives does your project best support?
Marketing (Marketing Woodstock to attract more visitors and permanent residents), Attracting New Businesses (Attracting businesses to Woodstock), Events (Supporting the growth of events for visitors and the community)
Other Objectives
Project Collaborations
I am collaborating with multiple organizations and business in the area. Primary among these is the Woodstock Recreation Center who generously provide me a location to run the e-bike rentals. As well, I have recently been working with the Woodstock Inn to include the Mt. Peg trail system into my route inventory. A variety of airbnb's, bed & breakfasts, hotels, restaurants, general stores, and farm stands help promote Woodstock Wheels by distributing my business cards and brochures - not-to-mention telling their customers "this is the thing to do in our village!” I have also made donations to the "The Music by the River" event and to the Woodstock Rotary by providing gift certificates for free e-bike rentals.
Additional Comments
I am proud of the solid foundation laid down this year for the continued growth of Woodstock Wheels. Obtaining this grant will be a tremendous boost to acquire the needed tools to grow Woodstock Wheels in the coming years.