St. Croix County, WI — St. Croix Economic Development Corporation (SCEDC) hosted the 2nd Annual SCEDC Scale-Up Challenge on May 21, bringing together entrepreneurs, business leaders, and community members for an evening celebrating growing local businesses in St. Croix County.
SCEDC’s Scale-Up Challenge, presented in partnership with the St. Croix Valley Business Innovation Center (SCVBIC), UW–River Falls Small Business Development Center (SBDC), UW-Stout, and supported by a Small Business Development Grant from the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation (WEDC), provides established small businesses with the opportunity to compete for funding and business support resources designed to help accelerate growth.
This year’s finalists delivered impressive live pitches showcasing innovative products, services, and growth strategies that highlighted the strength and diversity of St. Croix County’s entrepreneurial community.
The 2026 Scale-Up Challenge winners are:
- 1st Place — TNT Coffee Lab, LLC
- 2nd Place — J2 Integrity Solutions LLC
- 3rd Place — Wilder Waffle Co
- Crowd Favorite — Hudson Classic Barbershop
A total of $10,500 in cash prizes was awarded during the competition, including $5,000 for first place, $3,000 for second place, $2,000 for third place, and $500 for the crowd favorite award. In addition to the cash prizes, the first-place winner received a one-year co-working membership at the St. Croix Valley Business Innovation Center and a one-year Investor Membership with SCEDC, and the second and third place winners received a one-year Investor Membership with SCEDC. Each winner has expanded knowledge of regional business resources, mentorship, and professional networks after the event as well.
“All of the pitches were impressive, and it was great to hear each entrepreneur share their vision for growth,” said SCEDC Executive Director Melissa Meschke. “The Scale-Up Challenge continues to demonstrate the strength of our local business community and the importance of supporting entrepreneurs as they scale right here in St. Croix County.”
In addition to the live competition, the event served as a networking opportunity for the entrepreneurs, local business leaders, and community partners in attendance.
For more information about SCEDC and future business programs and events, visit: business.stcroixedc.com/events.