Wool isn’t just for sweaters anymore: Eau Claire’s own Woolly Belly Pellets – “a sustainable and renewable gardening solution made from 100% wool” – have been chosen as the winner of the Eau Claire Area Economic Development Corporation’s annual Idea Challenge.

Woolly Belly Pellets, created by Elizabeth Ivankovic & Jannell Sworski, are sourced from local sheep, and when placed in potted plants or gardens help retain water and fertilize plants by slowly releasing nutrients. (See Volume One's article from this past fall for more information on the biz.)

The product was picked from among five finalists by a panel of five Idea Challenge judges, the Eau Claire Area EDC announced Dec. 19, and its creators received a grand prize of $5,000.

Learn Better by Sarah Welsch – “a hands-on service that empowers organizations to create impactful employee learning programs” – was the recipient of the Business Service Award and received $1,000.

Other finalists, in no particular order, were Metabolic Care NP by Christina Funk, Good Energy by Jennifer Schrader, and Wellness Center by Tamisha Butler.

The Eau Claire Area EDC describes the Idea Challenge as a “unique business idea contest … that accepts ideas from local entrepreneurs, in any stage of development for any new product, service, or process.” The Idea Challenge was created in 2007, and since 2011 Northwestern Bank has sponsored the $5,000 cash award. WESTconsin Credit Union sponsors the $1,000 Business Service Award.

Learn more about the Eau Claire Area EDC at eauclaire-wi.com.