Jackson Business Challenge

Jackson Business Development Committee, in conjunction with The City of Jackson, Jackson Area Chamber of Commerce, JEDC, and Economic Development Office, is offering an incentive package worth up to $20,000 for a winning business that will open in downtown Jackson by June 2, 2025.

Jackson Business Challenge 2024

Overview:

The Jackson Business Challenge is an entrepreneurial start-up competition for Jackson’s central business district. Business concepts eligible for the competition are (1) new businesses, (2) a second or third satellite business from an existing location in another town, or (3) a significant
expansion of a current business that includes an additional business concept.

Goals:

To initiate innovative recruitment of businesses that will enhance the business mix in downtown Jackson
Provide entrepreneurial businesses a head-start during the first year of business operation .
To strengthen the economy and the downtown environment of Jackson by attracting unique and specialty businesses.
To transform empty business spaces into more attractive and beneficial locations
To build a “buzz” and promote Jackson as a great place to start a business
To display the community’s commitment to downtown Jackson; to take ownership in and demonstrate pride in downtown Jackson.

Timeline

Phase 1 - Business Concept Due: September 30, 2024

Announcement of those advancing to Phase 2: October 4, 2024

Phase 2 - Business Plans Drafts Due: November 1, 2024

Business Plans Due: November 8, 2024
Announcement of those advancing to Phase 3: November 15, 2024

Phase 3 - Final Proposal Presentations: Personal Interview will be scheduled for the
weeks of November 18, – November 22, 2024

Announcement of the Grand Prize Winner: December 6, 2024

Business Must be Open: June 2, 2025
**Dates are subject to change**

How to apply/question:

All applications to be submitted via mail or e-mail to:

Jackson Area Chamber Of Commerce
℅: Jackson Business Challenge
114 3rd St. Jackson, MN 56143
Email: Chamber@jacksonmn.com

Jackson Economic Development Office
Bank Midwest
℅: Jackson Business Challenge/Molly Fransen
509 3rd Street, Jackson, MN 56143
Email: mfransen@bankmidwest.com
*Contestant required to verify receipt of entry