ST. CROIX COUNTY – St. Croix Economic Development Corporation (SCEDC) has launched a new Small Business Development Grant (SBDG) Program that will invest $220,000 directly into small businesses and second-stage companies across St. Croix County.

The funding was awarded to SCEDC through a competitive Small Business Development Grant from the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation (WEDC). SCEDC will pass 100% of the funds directly to local businesses through four capital access programs designed to encourage occupancy of vacant spaces, improve commercial properties, expand access to financing, and support high-growth companies.

“Our goal is to reduce barriers to growth for small businesses,” said Melissa Meschke, Executive Director of SCEDC. “This program allows us to meet businesses where they are — whether they are opening a storefront, improving a building, securing financing, or scaling up.”

The SCEDC Small Business Development Grant Program includes four stackable funding opportunities, meaning eligible businesses may qualify for more than one grant.

The Rental/Purchase Assistance Grant provides $5,000 to businesses that commit to occupying commercial spaces that have been vacant for more than three months. To qualify, businesses must sign a lease of at least three years for a minimum of 750 square feet or purchase the property and become operational within six months.

The Facade Improvement Grant offers up to $5,000 in reimbursement funding for exterior upgrades such as signage, paint, landscaping, awnings, windows, masonry work, and exterior lighting. The program is designed to enhance curb appeal and community vitality throughout the county.

To increase access to working capital, the Capital Access Boost Grant provides an additional $5,000 to businesses that have secured qualifying non-traditional loan or grant programs, including SBA, Regional Business Fund (RBF) loans, Wisconsin Women’s Business Initiative Corporation (WWBIC) loans, St. Croix Valley Business Innovation Center (SCVBIC) grants, Red Letter Grants, and Hmong Chamber loan programs. Traditional bank loans do not qualify.

In addition, growth-oriented companies will have the opportunity to compete in the SCEDC Scale Up Pitch Competition, open to businesses with at least one year in operation and demonstrating growth potential. Up to seven businesses will be selected to pitch at each competition, with prizes of $5,000 for first place, $3,000 for second place, and $2,000 for third place. The next pitch competition will take place May 21, 2026, with a second competition scheduled for May 2027. Pitch applications will open March 9 and will be accepted until April 13.

All grant recipients will be required to meet with the St. Croix Valley Business Innovation Center or the University of Wisconsin–River Falls Small Business Development Center prior to receiving funds. Businesses must be headquartered in St. Croix County (or relocating or expanding into the county), employ 25 or fewer full-time employees, operate as a for-profit entity, and be in good standing with the State of Wisconsin.

Grants will be awarded on a first-come, first-served basis using application time stamps. The program runs from January 2026, through December 2027, or until funding is expended. Full program guidelines and application materials are available at: https://stcroixedc.com/small-business-development-grant/ Businesses are encouraged to apply early.

Submitted by St. Croix EDC