1-25-17 fdl ignite grant

The Center for Enterprise Development, the fiscal agent of IGNITE! Business Success, an entrepreneurial resource provider network has been awarded a $40,000 grant from the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation to create a milestone-based certification and grant program for Fond du Lac County entrepreneurs completing key business development steps. IGNITE! became a recipient of the grant as part of the 11 Wisconsin organizations to receive grants under WEDC’s new Entrepreneurship Support pilot program, which will help fund activities such as the promotion of entrepreneurship; entrepreneurial education, mentorship and training; and business development and financial services. Nearly $500,000 in matching grants were awarded statewide.  Steve Jenkins, Executive Director for the Center for Enterprise Development, is optimistic about the business startup potential for this grant. “Every year, the IGNITE! network works with many entrepreneurs looking to launch their product or company. A common issue we are seeing is the lack of startup capital. Our hope is that this grant program will be able to serve as leverage for other sources of startup capital.”   To implement, $30,000 of the $40,000 grant will be awarded to entrepreneurs who complete the IGNITE! certification.  The certification process consists of milestone steps, including development of a business model and business plan. $2,000 will be awarded upon completion of the program to be used toward business startup related expenses. This may include capital expenditures, down payment on a business loan, inventory or marketing. The remaining $10,000 will be used towards marketing, education and further development of the IGNITE! program. Individuals interested in the certification process can contact IGNITE! at 920-322-1887 or ignitefdlc.com for more information.