Dunn Economic Development Launches New Grant Program

Dunn Economic Development has announced the launch of a new grant program aimed at supporting small businesses in the region.

According to a press release, the Dunn County Small Business Development Grant Program will offer eligible businesses up to $10,000 of funding to continue growing their operations and become more efficient.

The grant funding can be used to access technical assistance through organizations like Western Dairyland Economic Opportunity Council and the Center for Innovation and Development at the University of Wisconsin Stout, help startups cover the cost of commercial space, and to match funding granted through other Economic Development Loan Fund Programs like the Revolving Loan Fund or Regional Business Fund.

Funding recipients will be chosen by the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation with an increased focus on helping more rural and underserved communities. $250,000 is available in total through the grant program.

In addition to this grant funding through Dunn Economic Development, local organizations are pursuing a number of other efforts to grow the workforce and improve quality of life in the region. UW-Stout received $2 million in federal grant funding earlier this year for its FUSE Program, which provides job training in critical fields facing workforce shortages like healthcare, manufacturing, child care, and cybersecurity. The Community Foundation of Dunn County also awards grant funding to local nonprofits and small businesses for projects ranging from feeding and housing people in need to building new playgrounds.

Businesses interested in applying for the Small Business Development Grant Program must verify that they operate out of a Dunn County address to ensure all of the grant funding is going to support local businesses. Applications must be submitted by April 24th and more information is available on the Dunn Economic Development website.