Daily Pioneer News

PLATTEVILLE - Proposals are now being accepted from existing businesses in Southwest Wisconsin for Business Enhancement grants. Businesses that could benefit (through increased sales, expansion, job growth, etc.) from services provided by consultants (web development, market research, marketing plan, operations management plan, process changes, scientific research, etc.) may submit project proposals in consideration of a Rural Business Enhancement grant. This grant is funded through the USDA/CSREES agency of the federal government and administered through the University of Wisconsin-Platteville and the Small Business Development Center of Southwest Wisconsin. This grant is a reimbursement type. Consultant costs are reimbursed up to 75 percent, payable at project completion. A progress payment may be considered for large, costly projects.

Proposals should be submitted to the Small Business Development Center for review and consideration. Proposals are due by July 7. Proposal reviews will be completed by July 31, with grant award notification to businesses shortly thereafter. Projects are expected to be completed by May 31, 2007. Project proposals should include at minimum: description and location of current business; project title, description and purpose of the project; description of project significance to Southwest Wisconsin; description of project scope and deliverables to the business; description of the project design; description of project method; description of project schedule (timeline); description of the project cost structure, and budget; consultant pay rate documentation; and resume of consultant personnel involved with project. For more information on the Rural Business Enhancement grant, call the Small Business Development Center office at UW-Platteville at (608) 342-1038.

Contact: Small Business Development Center, (608) 342-1038