Jump-Start Downtown Business Competition

The Jump-Start Award

Jump-Start Downtown" is a business competition for entrepreneurs interested in opening a business in Downtown Eau Claire.

ELIGIBILITY

“Jump-Start Downtown” is a business competition for people 18 years of age or older who are interested in starting a business or relocating one to the downtown area during the timeframe of October 2019-2021. Any type of business is eligible, from high-tech offices to gift shops.

DEADLINE

The deadline for submitting your application and business plan is Monday, September 7, 2020.

Application

View fillable application and scoring matrix. Submit application and business plan to downtown@eauclairewi.gov.

Awards

Grand Prize: $5,000 in start-up capital (sponsored by Royal Credit Union), a Brand Development Strategy Session with JB Systems ($680 value), $500 Advertising Credits with both The Leader Telegram and Volume One, and a 3-month flex membership with CoLab ($330 value).

Honorable Mention: $2,500 in start-up capital (sponsored by ‘Leap’ level sponsors), 3 month flex membership with CoLab ($330 value), and $250 Advertising Credits with both The Leader Telegram and Volume One.

Innovative Idea Prize: $1,000 in start-up capital (sponsored by Associated Bank).

Up to 6 applicants to the 2019 Jump-Start Program are eligible for the Entrepreneurial Training Program from the Small Business Development Center within 1 year! All applicants receive a DECI Media Package that includes online and print promotions and ribbon-cutting upon opening!