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Redevelopment Authority approves application for WEDC business development grant to pair with city funds
Summary
The Authority approved applying for a Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation (WEDC) Business Development Grant requesting $50,000; staff said pairing with the Authority’s $50,000 commitment could make about $100,000 available to support Uptown business recruitment and retention.
The Redevelopment Authority approved a resolution on Sept. 4 to apply for a Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation (WEDC) Business Development Grant, staff said.
A presenter explained this is WEDC’s second year running the program after a successful pilot and that the Authority would apply for $50,000 to pair with the city’s proposed $50,000 commitment. The staff presenter said the WEDC portion would offer awards up to $5,000 with a required 25% match and be targeted at business recruitment and retention — funding inventory (excluding alcohol), equipment, marketing and technology rather than construction or remodeling.
The staff presenter said staff intends to mirror the application and review process used for the Uptown Facade Grant and to partner with the Small Business Development Center at Parkside to help prospective new businesses prepare plans and financing.
Authority members asked questions about eligible business types and zoning; staff said the focus is retail and restaurants and reiterated exclusions for tax‑exempt properties, home‑based businesses, national franchises and certain service or adult‑oriented uses. A committee member also asked staff to check state childcare funding programs to see whether additional support could be layered for childcare providers.
The resolution to approve the application was adopted by voice vote.
