Le Sueur Business Challenge

The Le Sueur Economic Development Authority in conjunction with The City of Le Sueur, Le Sueur Chamber of Commerce, and community partners are offering an incentive package worth over $10,000 for a winning business that will open in downtown Le Sueur by December 31, 2025.

Rules & Guidelines

Application Form

Overview

The Le Sueur Business Challenge is an entrepreneurial start-up competition for Le Sueur’s downtown 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 Le Sueur
  • Provide entrepreneurial businesses a head-start during the first year of business operation.
  • To strengthen the economy and the downtown environment of Le Sueur by attracting unique and specialty businesses.
  • To transform empty business spaces into more attractive and beneficial locations
  • To build a “buzz” and promote Le Sueur as a great place to start a business
  • To display the community’s commitment to downtown Le Sueur; to take ownership in and demonstrate pride in downtown Le Sueur.

Timeline

  • Phase 1
    • Business concept due: March 31, 2025
    • Announcement of those advancing to phase 2: April 1, 2025
  • Phase 2
    • Business plans drafts due: May 26, 2025
    • Business plans due: June 2, 2025
    • Announcement of those advancing to phase 3: June 9, 2025
  • Phase 3
    • Final proposal presentations: July 7 - 11, 2025
    • Announcement of the prize winner: July 14, 2025
  • Open 
    • Business must be open: December 31, 2025

**Dates are subject to change**

How To Apply/Questions

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

Le Sueur Economic Development Authority

Subject: Le Sueur Business Challenge 

203 S 2nd St Le Sueur, MN 56058

Email: jack.wheeler@cedausa.com

*Contestant required to verify receipt of entry

Round 1 has officially concluded!  The committee has completed the initial round of applications and has progressed five (5) concepts to Round 2. The concepts include: 

Coffeeshop/Bakery

Artisan Pizzeria

Social Work Practice 

Remodeler Showroom