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:

Apply Online