December 8, 2022

Club Verse, an LGBTQ+ bar, will soon receive a $250,000 Economic Development Loan Fund (EDLF) loan from Salt Lake City to build out and expand their new space on State Street. 

Located at 609 S. State Street, Club Verse opened this fall to provide a safe and exciting space for identity explorations with like-minded individuals. In addition to the bar and dance floor space, Club Verse plans to expand include a vision for a rooftop patio, a “mocktail” bar, and coffee shop to create an even more inclusive and accessible space. 

“Salt Lake City is a welcoming place and I’m glad to see local businesses take advantage of our Economic Development Loan Fund to help scale,” said Salt Lake City Mayor Erin Mendenhall. “Club Verse is another example of our residents working together to create a welcoming environment for the LGBTQ+ community.”

The Salt Lake City Council approved Club Verse’s loan application at its meeting Tuesday night.

“A strong economy is one that is diverse and includes individuals from all backgrounds and identities,” said Lorena Riffo Jenson, Director of Salt Lake City’s Department of Economic Development. “Establishments like Club Verse illustrate the growing economic impact of nightlife here in Salt Lake City. Their presence here is a win and contributes to a greater quality of life for residents.”

The EDLF’s purpose is to stimulate business development and expansion, create employment opportunities, encourage private investment, promote economic development, and enhance neighborhood vitality and commercial enterprise in Salt Lake City by making loans available to businesses. The program’s overarching goal is to invest in viable businesses that produce strong economic returns and also provide positive social and environmental impacts. Learn more here. 

“We are excited to have Club Verse as a part of the business community in Salt Lake City, adding another gathering place for the LGBTQ+ community in the City’s Midtown District,” said Roberta Reichgelt, Business Development Director. “Serving the small business community is an important part of our work, and we were happy to assist in the opening of this important and safe space that will contribute to the quality of life for all residents.”

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About Salt Lake City Department of Economic Development: 

Formed in 2016, Salt Lake City’s Department of Economic Development is focused on building Salt Lake City as a vibrant, beautiful, prosperous, diverse, and authentic place – a place that is economically accessible to everyone. Known as the “Crossroads of the West,” Salt Lake City is strategically located for businesses to succeed. SLCDED works to streamline processes, provide excellent customer service, and offer an array of resources and services to recruit and retain businesses in the City, and ensure they have the tools to thrive.  Learn more here.