Winneshiek County Development offering "Biz Booster Challenge"

Winneshiek County Development, Inc. is again offering a business plan competition called "Biz Booster Challenge" — this year with a top grant of up to $12,000.

The Biz Booster Challenge is open to anyone who starts a new business or significantly expands an existing business in Winneshiek County.

The main consideration in selecting a winner or winners in the Biz Booster Challenge will be the amount of economic impact the new or expanding business will have in Winneshiek County.

The Biz Booster judging panel will make the final decision on whether the $12,000 grant will be awarded to one participant or split among multiple winners. The deadline for entering a business plan is April 2nd.

In addition to a one-time grant award, the winner or winners may receive free professional consultations with an attorney, a certified public accountant or other professional helpful to running a small business.

Participants must be 18 years or older or have consent of their parents or legal guardians to qualify. Only one business plan per participant will be allowed.

In addition to a written business plan, finalists will make an oral presentation before a 7-member judging panel.

To qualify to make the oral presentation, local small-business owners or prospective business owners must submit a business plan that calls for the business to be:

· Profitable or at least sustainable

· Situated fully or at least substantially in Winneshiek County

· Not engaged in an acquisition or merger of an existing company

Registration materials and more information about the Biz Booster Challenge may be obtained by contact Winneshiek County Development Director Randy Uhl at 563-382-6061 or wcdi@alpinecom.net.