Jump-Start Downtown Business Competition
Jump-Start Downtown is a business competition for entrepreneurs over 18 years old who are interested in opening a business in or relocating a business to Downtown Eau Claire (view downtown boundaries) during between 2022-2024. Any type of business is eligible, from high-tech offices to gift shops.
Awards
Three winners will be selected by a panel of judges using the evaluation criteria described on the application linked below.
Grand Prize: $5,000 in Start-up Capital (Sponsored by Royal Credit Union), a 6-Month Downtown Eau Claire Membership, & a 3-Month Flex Membership at CoLab ($330 Value)
Honorable Mention: $2,500 in Start-up Capital, a 6-Month Downtown Eau Claire Membership, & a 3-Month Flex Membership at CoLab ($330 Value)
Innovative Idea Prize: $1,000 in Start-up Capital & a 6-Month Downtown Eau Claire Membership
How To Apply
Applications are now open for 2023! In order to be considered, applicants must download the form linked below, fill it out, and email it to downtown@eauclairewi.gov along with a business plan that includes:
- Executive Summary
- Business Description
- Competition/Market Analysis
- Marketing Plan
- Management Plan
- Financial Plan
- Viability Analysis
Deadline
Applications for the 2023 cycle are due on December 1, 2023. If you need help, consider working on your business plan and finances with free local entrepreneurial resources such as:
- UW-Eau Claire Small Business Development Center
- Western Wisconsin Women's Business Center
- Red Letter Grant Workshops