Small Business Technical Assistance Program

The Small Business Technical Assistance Program is administered by the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation as part of its broader efforts to strengthen the state’s small business ecosystem. Originally developed through the consolidation of earlier entrepreneurial support initiatives, the program has evolved into a competitive grant opportunity designed to support organizations that provide direct assistance to small businesses. The program reflects a strategic shift toward enhancing the capacity of intermediary organizations that deliver mentorship, training, and technical services rather than funding businesses directly. The primary purpose of the program is to increase traditional small business activity across Wisconsin by investing in organizations that deliver technical assistance programming. These programs may support businesses at all stages of development, from early idea validation through growth and expansion. Funded activities are expected to contribute to a stronger entrepreneurial ecosystem through services such as mentorship, leadership development, networking opportunities, and business education. The program emphasizes measurable outcomes such as the number of businesses assisted and individuals engaged. Funding is provided in the form of grants that may be used for operational expenses tied to the delivery of technical assistance programs. Allowable uses include staffing, program development, training events, and more intensive initiatives such as accelerator programs. Funds must be used specifically for approved project costs and may only be applied after receiving authorization. Each applicant may receive only one award per fiscal year, and the program sets a maximum award size, with total program funding allocated annually. A key requirement of the program is the provision of matching funds at a 1:1 ratio. Applicants must demonstrate the ability to match the requested grant amount through cash or in-kind contributions. This requirement ensures shared investment and strengthens the financial viability of proposed projects. Applicants are expected to clearly outline how both grant and matching funds will be used to enhance the local ecosystem of small business support organizations. Eligibility is limited to nonprofit and similar entities, including units of government, educational institutions, community organizations, foundations, and Tribal entities. Applicants must propose programs that directly contribute to entrepreneurial development and technical assistance delivery. The program prioritizes applicants that demonstrate strong community support, relevant experience, and the ability to implement innovative and sustainable program models. The application process is competitive and conducted in up to two cycles per fiscal year, typically during the summer and winter. Interested applicants must first consult with a WEDC account manager to determine project alignment before being invited to submit a formal application through the Network Wisconsin platform. Applications are reviewed by a scoring committee based on criteria such as feasibility, financial viability, impact, innovation, and alignment with strategic priorities. Awardees are required to participate in ongoing performance reporting, including tracking metrics related to business assistance and community engagement. Recipients must maintain documentation for audit purposes and may be subject to additional reporting requirements. The program is recurring and structured to continuously support the development of Wisconsin’s small business ecosystem through sustained investment in technical assistance providers.

Clearly demonstrate measurable outcomes, strong community support, and alignment with WEDC priorities; emphasize innovation and sustainability in program design