St. Croix County, WI – March 7, 2025 – The St. Croix Economic Development Corporation (SCEDC), in partnership with the St. Croix Valley Business Innovation Center and the UW-River Falls Small Business Development Center, is excited to launch the Scale-Up Challenge, a pitch competition designed to identify and support small businesses with high growth potential. The competition is open to small businesses and startups that have been in operation for at least one year, have a proven product or service, and are headquartered in St. Croix County. Applicants must demonstrate a clear growth strategy and potential for economic impact.
Eligibility and Evaluation Criteria:
Qualified applicants must submit a detailed application covering their business profile, market opportunity, growth strategy, financial overview, and expected community impact. A panel of judges will evaluate submissions based on the significance of the problem being addressed and the innovativeness of the proposed solution. Market potential, including scalability and target audience understanding, will also be considered. Business expansion strategies will be assessed to determine feasibility, clarity, and long-term sustainability. The strength and execution capability of the team, financial viability, and funding strategy will be reviewed to ensure realistic alignment with growth projections. Additionally, judges will take into account the potential positive social or economic impact the business may have on the broader community.
Competition Stages & Key Dates:
- Applications Open: March 7, 2025
- Submission Deadline: April 14, 2025
- Finalist Notification: May 2, 2025
- Pitch Presentation & Awards: May 21, 2025 (4:00–6:00 PM)
Finalists will present their pitches live before a panel of judges, competing for a $5000 prize to fund their growth initiatives, a one-year co-working membership at the St. Croix Valley Business Innovation Center, a one-year small business membership from St. Croix EDC, and mentorship from industry experts. They will also gain access to legal, marketing, and technology resources, as well as valuable networking opportunities with investors, partners, and fellow entrepreneurs.
For more details and to apply, visit the event page on our website. For inquiries, contact Amanda Connelly at 715-690-210 or amanda@stcroixedc.com.