Small Business Revitalization Grant Program

The 7 Rivers Small Business Revitalization Grant Program is a targeted funding initiative launched by the 7 Rivers Alliance in partnership with Community Economic Development Associates (CEDA) and the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation (WEDC). This collaborative effort aims to strengthen and grow small businesses in rural Western Wisconsin. The program’s core objective is to bolster economic vitality in towns and communities with populations under 4,000 across designated counties within the 7 Rivers Alliance service area. These counties include Pepin, Buffalo, Jackson, Trempealeau, La Crosse, Monroe, Vernon, Juneau, and Crawford. This grant opportunity provides micro-grants of up to $10,000 for eligible for-profit businesses, including cooperatives, operating in the designated rural Wisconsin counties. The grant is specifically designed for businesses employing no more than ten full-time equivalent (FTE) employees and located in communities of 4,000 or fewer residents. Applicants must have a physical location and be in good standing with all licensing and tax obligations. Funds may be used for a range of eligible projects including equipment or technology upgrades, new signage, building or façade improvements, working capital for start-ups, or rent support for up to three months. The program strongly emphasizes community revitalization and local economic impact. To apply, businesses must complete the official application form, which requires documentation on business background, project description, budget, and supporting materials. Paper copies of the application are available upon request. Once submitted, applications will undergo a screening process by 7 Rivers Alliance staff, followed by evaluation by a review panel consisting of board members and economic development professionals. Applications are scored using a standardized 100-point rubric. Scores of 90 to 100 are considered highly competitive and strongly recommended for funding. Applications for the 2026 grant cycle will open on April 1 and close on August 1. All grant recipients will be announced by December 31, 2026, with funds distributed through 2027. Businesses must either provide a 10% cash match of the grant request or fulfill an in-kind match by completing 20 hours of technical assistance through approved partners like the Small Business Development Center (SBDC), WWBIC, or another accredited provider. The technical assistance can include business planning, financial management, marketing, workforce development, and peer networking opportunities. Equity and inclusivity are embedded into the program’s evaluation process. The grant program prioritizes outreach and support for underserved and diverse businesses, including those that are women-owned, veteran-owned, Tribal, LGBTQ+, or minority-owned. However, all eligible businesses are welcome to apply, and inclusive scoring is a component of the evaluation rubric. Ineligible applicants include nonprofits, businesses with more than ten employees, home-based or speculative ventures, and any business not headquartered within the eligible counties. Awardees will sign grant agreements outlining their obligations, including reporting requirements and publicity terms. These agreements ensure accountability and transparency while allowing the 7 Rivers Alliance to highlight the economic impact of the program across rural Wisconsin. The program represents a long-term commitment to fostering resilient, community-rooted businesses capable of weathering economic shifts and driving local growth in the future.