LET'S GET JUMP-STARTED IN HERE! Lily Beez Flower and Gift Shop in downtown Eau Claire was the winner of last year's Jump-Start Downtown Business Competition. (Image via Facebook)

Do you have a small-business dream you’re just itching to launch or an existing business you’re hoping to move to downtown Eau Claire? Then the Jump-Start Downtown Business Competition is for you!

Applications for the annual program, which is sponsored by Downtown Eau Claire Inc., are due Dec. 1. According to DECI, “Any type of business is eligible, from high-tech offices to gift shops.” The business must be opened in or relocated to downtown Eau Claire between 2023 and 2025.

Applicants must fill out the online form here as well as email a business plan to downtown@eauclairewi.gov. Business plans must include an executive summary, a business description, competition/market analysis, a marketing plan, a management plan, a financial plan, and a viability analysis. Those who need help creating business and financial plans are encouraged to reach out to agencies such as the UW-Eau Claire Small Business Development Center, the Western Wisconsin Women’s Business Center, and the Red Letter Grant workshops.

A panel of judges will select three winners, with the grand prize winner receiving $5,000 in start-up capital, sponsored by Royal Credit Union; a six-month membership in DECI; and a three-month flex membership at CoLab.

Learn more about the competition online or by emailing downtown@eauclaire.wi.gov.