Scale-Up Challenge

We are excited to be partnering with the St. Croix Economic Development Center (St. Croix EDC) and UW-River Falls Small Business Development Center to help grow one of our local businesses through the Scale-Up Challenge!

The St. Croix EDC Scale-Up Challenge is a dynamic pitch competition designed to identify, support, and promote small businesses with growth potential. This competition will provide a platform for entrepreneurs to showcase their ideas, gain visibility, and access resources essential for scaling their businesses. By fostering innovation and encouraging scalable business models, the Scale-Up Challenge aims to create an impact in the small business ecosystem, helping participants accelerate their growth and attract investment while improving St. Croix County.

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) 

Eligibility: Open to small businesses and startups in operation for at least one year, with a proven product or service and plans for expansion. Headquarters of the business must be located in St. Croix County.

Application Sections:

• Business profile: Company name, location, industry, founding year, and team size.

• Problem statement: Description of the problem the business addresses.

• Solution and unique value proposition: Explanation of the product or service and what sets it apart.

• Growth and scaling strategy: Detailed plan outlining how the business intends to scale, including target market, customer acquisition, distribution, and any technological or operational enhancements.

• Financial overview: Brief on current revenue, funding to date, and projected revenue growth over the next two years.

• Impact statement: A description of how scaling the business will benefit the broader community or industry.

Apply!