"Biz Booster Challenge" returns

A grant of up to $12,000 may be awarded to the winner of "Biz Booster Challenge," a Winneshiek County Development, Inc. business plan competition.

The contest 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 5th.

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; aituated fully or at least substantially in Winneshiek County; and 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 contacting Winneshiek County Development Director Randy Uhl at 563-382-6061 by going to www.thinkdecorah.com.