ST. CROIX COUNTY — St. Croix Economic Development Corporation (SCEDC) is excited to announce the return of the SCEDC Scale-Up Challenge, a pitch competition and networking event designed to help established small businesses and entrepreneurs accelerate growth and scale their operations. Now in its second year, the Scale-Up Challenge is offered in partnership with the St. Croix Valley Business Innovation Center (SCVBIC), the UW–River Falls Small Business Development Center (SBDC), UW-Stout, and, new this year, with generous support from the Small Business Development Grant provided by the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation (WEDC).

The competition is open to St. Croix County businesses that have been operating for at least one year, offer a proven product or service, and are ready to take the next step in scaling their business.

Selected participants will compete for a total of $10,500 in cash prizes, with $5,000 awarded for first place, $3,000 for second place, $2,000 for third place, and $500 for the crowd favorite, helping businesses invest directly in growth initiatives. In addition to cash prizes, finalists will receive a one-year co-working membership at the St. Croix Valley Business Innovation Center and a one-year Investor Membership with St. Croix Economic Development Corporation, providing continued access to regional business resources and professional networks.

Beyond the competition itself, the SCEDC Scale-Up Challenge serves as a networking opportunity for entrepreneurs, business leaders, and community partners. The live pitch event May 21 is open for all to attend:

4-5 p.m. Business Pitches

5-6:30 p.m. Networking with local business leaders and community partners

6:30-7 p.m. Winners announced

The impact of the Scale-Up Challenge extends far beyond the event itself. Since winning the inaugural event in 2025, Busted Knuckle BBQ has leveraged the competition’s momentum and support to expand into the metro and surrounding communities, grow its restaurant and food truck operations, and launch a full catering line for weddings, parties, and other events. The grant also allowed the company to hire and train additional staff, boost revenue, create more local jobs, and lay the foundation for future growth—including a potential second location and expanded licensing to serve the Twin Cities area. Busted Knuckle's success highlights how the Scale-Up Challenge helps local businesses turn ideas into measurable growth.

Applications for the SCEDC Scale-Up Challenge will open on March 9 and close on April 13. Applicants will be asked to submit information outlining their business model, growth strategy, and financials. Following the application review process, selected businesses will be notified by May 1 and invited to advance to the live pitch round.

Finalists will present a live pitch event on May 21, where they will compete in front of a panel of expert judges. Winners will be announced at the conclusion of the event, which is open for the public to attend.

For more information or to apply, visit: business.stcroixedc.com/events and click on the Scale Up event.

Submitted by St. Croix EDC