Business Resources
Every starting business needs a helping hand. That's why Downtown Eau Claire, Inc. (DECI) partners up with experts to provide business counseling and creates financial incentive programs for business owners.
| Business Consulting Assistance | |
|---|---|
| SCORE | |
| 510 S. Barstow St. (Federal Building) | Phone: (715) 834-1573 (call ahead for appointment) |
| Small Business Development Center | |
| 210 Water St. (UWEC Cont. Ed Bldg) | Phone: (715) 836-5811 |
| Western Dairyland Business Center | |
| 418 Wisconsin St. | Phone: (715) 836-7511 |
| Wisconsin Entrepreneurs Network (WEN) | |
| 210 Water Street | Phone: (715) 836-3636 |
Financial Programs
Programs listed here are intended to give you an overview of programs available. Please note that all of our financial programs are listed in detail on the City of Eau Claire Economic Development website.
To apply for any of these financial programs please contact the City of Eau Claire Economic Development Director at 839-4914.
Downtown Eau Claire Code Compliance Loan
The City shall provide a loan equal to 50% of the cost of the changes and improvements required to correct building or fire code deficiencies, not to exceed $10,000. A loan under this program must be matched by an equal investment in related improvements to the building by the property owner or lessee..
Code Compliance Info and Application
Downtown Eau Claire Facade Loan
The Downtown Facade Loan Program provides financial assistance to encourage property and business owners in Downtown Eau Claire to revitalize buildings. Eligible activities include: facade renovation; exterior lighting, doors, and graphics; signage, windows, and awnings; other facade or landscape improvements. Loan size can range from $5,000 to $30,000 at 0% fixed interest rate with terms up to 15 years. All loans shall be secured by a mortgage on the property being renovated. Unlimited personal guarantees are required for any owner with greater than 20% ownership interest in the business. Application and design plans are reviewed by the façade loan committee.
Downtown Facade Information and Application
Downtown Eau Claire Loft Matching Grant
Downtown Eau Claire, Inc. shall provide building owners/developers a reimbursement for up to 50% (or $2,000, whichever is less) of expenses incurred with the analysis and/or architectural design of a downtown loft apartment project. If a project is not implemented because it is deemed not economically feasible by the building owner/developer (after services by a licensed architect are rendered), 50% of expenses incurred will be reimbursed up to a maximum of $1,000. A copy of the completed work product of the licensed architect or engineer must also be provided to Downtown Eau Claire, Inc. The Loft Matching Grant intends to stimulate the creation of market rate housing in the upper floors of downtown buildings. This program is designed to encourage the development of new and expansion of existing residential loft housing in the downtown.
Downtown Loft Matching Information and Application
Other Federal, State and Regional Financial Programs
Click the link below to download more information about other federal, state and regional financial programs.
Financial Resources
White Papers on Business Financing
Finding Money For Your Business
Selecting a Financial Institution
The Grant Myth