SOME RAD RED LETTER GRANT RECIPIENTS. This week, the Red Letter Grant was awarded to four regional women-owned businesses. (Submitted photo) 

Wednesday was a red-letter day for four female entrepreneurs in the region: They were the latest recipients of Red Letter Grants. The Eau Claire-based grant program is meant to even the playing field for female entrepreneurs by offering $2,000 start-up grants to help local and regional women kick off their businesses.

According to Becca Cooke, founder and executive director of the Red Letter Grant, a record 28 applicants sought funds from the grant, signaling “that although the fallout from the COVID-19 pandemic has been difficult for our economy, it has not stifled entrepreneurial spirit regionally,” she wrote in an email announcing the recipients.

Recipients include Laura Riley & Co. (Menomonie), Integrity Audit & Tax (Black River Falls), Legacy Pines Assisted Living (New Richmond), and Peace Tree Care (Fall Creek).

Out of the 28 applicants, 12 individuals made it to the interview round of the program. The eight women who did not receive grant funds will also be highlighted by Red Letter Grant’s social media and web platforms in the coming weeks.

Here’s some more info on the winners:

Laura Riley & Co. is a new business based in Menomonie, teaches “socially-conscious and values-driven professionals and business owners how to articulate their values, get clear on who they are, and clarify what they have to offer.” This business integrates personal branding, communications, professional coaching, and more through online classes, virtual and in-person workshops, coaching, groups, speaking events, and through additional print resources.

Integrity Audit & Tax in Black River Falls aims to provide accounting services to individuals and businesses, with a focus on serving the Ho-Chunk Nation.

Legacy Pines Assisted Living is a community-based residential facility that offers comfortable living solutions for senior adults in New Richmond. It offers 24-hour supervision, daily living assistance, medication management, and meals.

Peace Tree Care is a childcare center in Fall Creek for children aged 6 weeks to 11 years old, inspired by the philosophy of Montessori and Reggio Emilia. “Peace Tree is a place where children are free to discover and explore at their own pace,” the email newsletter said, “build independence, and learn practical life skills.”

For those interested in applying for the Red Letter Grant program this fall, applications are due on Oct. 4. Check out more information at redlettergrant.org.