Business Innovation Grant Application

Please read through the entire application and review the list of required documents before you begin. Additional program information is available at emmetsburg.com/business-grant.

It is highly recommended for all applicants to utilize the services of the Northwest Iowa Small Business Development Center (SBDC) to prepare business plans and financial projections.

Additional small business resources include Iowa SourceLink and the Tietz Entrepreneurial Center.

PROJECT INFORMATION
PROJECT SUMMARY - Provide a general description of the proposed project, including primary goals and objectives, overall timeline, and use of grant funds.*
MISSION & GOALS - What are the specific goals/mission the business seeks to achieve?*
IMPACT - Describe the impact the business will have on Emmetsburg (i.e. local economy, job creation, community vibrancy, tax base, building appearance, etc.).*
COMMUNITY NEED - Is there evidence of need/demand for the business in the community? Please describe how the business concept, products and/ or services have been tested. Will the project address a challenge the community is facing?*
TARGET AUDIENCE - Who is(are) the target audience(s) of the business? Please describe plans to market the business to the target audience(s).*
INNOVATION - Give your case for support as to why this project is unique and worthy of funding. How will the business address challenges through innovation and creativity?*
TIMELINE - Provide a detailed timeline of tasks necessary to open/expand the business, along with the anticipated opening/completion date.*
JOB CREATION - Describe the number of full-time, part-time, and/or seasonal employees your business will employ short-term and the potential for the future, including yourself. (Feel free to refer to the business plan.)*

PROJECT BUDGET
Describe the need for funding and what you will use the money for, if awarded. Please share your own personal investment in the business/project. Please indicate if funding has already been secured through a lender, if needed. Outline your project budget in detail below.*

Use of Funds

PARTNERS & BACKGROUND
PROJECT PARTNERS - Identify all partners, logistical and financial, including an explanation of roles and responsibilities.*
SKILLS & EXPERIENCE - Explain your background, skills, experience, and training that will help you in this new/growing business. Identify additional training that you might benefit from.

APPLICANT INFORMATION