Action Brown County to be host of second Start-Up Competition to ignite local entrepreneurship

BROWN COUNTY, Ill. — Following the success of the inaugural Brown County Start-Up Competition in 2022, Action Brown County, with the support of the Tracy Family Foundation, has announced the second edition of this initiative aimed at fostering local entrepreneurship.

This competition seeks to empower aspiring business owners who have explored various ideas but have yet to turn their concepts into viable Brown County businesses.

The first Brown County Start-Up Competition attracted 17 applicants, with three of the five finalists successfully launching and currently operating their businesses in the area. The upcoming competition offers an opportunity for entrepreneurs to bring their visions to life with the support of the local community.

Participants in this year’s competition will gain insights through business-centered workshops led by regional experts that will cover the intricacies of starting a new business, equipping participants with the knowledge and tools needed to succeed. Following the workshops, participants will develop business plans and pitch their prospective business ideas to a panel of judges.

The winner of the competition will be awarded up to $20,000 in cash prizes, along with ongoing support in accounting, marketing, retail best practices and customer service. This comprehensive support package is designed to help the winner get their business off the ground and ensure its long-term success.

Applications for the competition are now open and can be submitted online at www.actionbrowncounty.org/startup. The deadline for submissions is Thursday, Oct. 24. While applicants are not required to be residents of Brown County, they must propose and establish a physical business within the county if selected as a winner.

Ideal applicants will propose a sustainable business that generates employment, foot traffic and/or retail sales, addressing a specific need within Brown County. Applicants must be at least 18 years of age.

The competition will culminate in a public pitch presentation at 6 p.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 6, at the Brown County High School auditorium. The five finalists will present their business ideas to the judges and the community, with the winner announced at the event.

“The Brown County Start-Up Competition is a testament to our commitment to fostering local entrepreneurship and creating opportunities for new businesses to thrive in our community,” Alex Geisler, Action Brown County executive director, said in a press release. “We encourage anyone with a promising business idea to apply and take advantage of this unique opportunity to turn their dream into reality.”

For more information and to apply, visit www.actionbrowncounty.org/startup.