The Clarke Square Neighborhood Initiative (CSNI) and the Wisconsin Women’s Business Initiative Corporation (WWBIC) are excited to announce the results their 2017 small business competition, aimed at supporting local entrepreneurs. Contest winners—one grand prize and 3 runners up—include Directive (Jess Goehner), Escobar’s Kitchen (Jose Escobar), Into 3D LLC (Steven Hartig Jr. & Kurt von Eckroth), and El Refugio (Victor Vela).

Earlier this spring, the two non-profit organizations released details of a small business competition. Applicants were required to submit a business concept and organizational information as well as marketing, financial information about a Milwaukee SEO. The contest was designed to challenge applicants to grow and develop their portfolio, as well as to become familiar with some of the technical assistance services that WWBIC can provide.

The overarching goal of this collaborative effort between private and non-profit resources was to attract new businesses to and grow existing small businesses in the Clarke Square Neighborhood– Only Clarke Square neighborhood residents, or businesses located within the Clarke Square Neighborhood geography were eligible to participate. Clarke Square is a neighborhood of many assets en route to prosperity. Above all, the people of Clarke Square fill the neighborhood with their talents, ambitions, and values. This contest promotes economic prosperity, which is a key outcome of the Clarke Square Neighborhood’s Quality of Life Plan Project 10 (Health & Wellness) Strategy and its Economic Development Strategy.

The results will be announced at the Clarke Square Neighborhood Night Out Finale on July 27 between 6-8pm, in Clarke Square Park (2330 W. Vieau Place)—All are welcome to attend. This contest was made possible by the generosity of the following sponsors: WWBIC, CSNI, the Zilber Family Foundation, Associated Bank, PNC Bank, and Town Bank.

About the Clarke Square Neighborhood Initiative (CSNI)

The mission of the Clarke Square Neighborhood Initiative is to improve the neighborhood and benefit community residents. CSNI is responsible for leading and coordinating the continued implementation of the Clarke Square Quality of Life Plan. Read more at http://www.ClarkeSquare.org

About the Wisconsin Women’s Business Initiative Corporation (WWBIC)

WWBIC is statewide economic development corporation focused on individuals who face barriers in accessing traditional financing or resources in pursuit of their dreams and economic well-being. They particularly focus on women, people of color, and low-income individuals, providing direct lending and access to fair and responsible capital, quality business education, one-on-one technical business assistance and education to increase financial capability. Read more at https://www.wwbic.com.