WRNC Opportunity Fund

Fueling Business Growth in Rural Communities

The WRNC Business Opportunity Fund is a regional financial assistance program designed to empower small businesses in the Cities of Waupun and Ripon and the Villages of North Fond du Lac and Campbellsport. This initiative—supported in part by a Small Business Development Grant from the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation—focuses on enhancing local economies through two targeted funding tracks: the WRNC Start-Up Fund and the WRNC Expansion Fund. Whether you’re launching a new venture or scaling an existing operation, WRNC provides the tools and financial support to bring your business goals to life.

The WRNC Start-Up Fund offers up to $10,000 to help entrepreneurs turn their ideas into brick-and-mortar realities. The WRNC Expansion Fund, offering up to $25,000, supports growing businesses that are ready to expand their footprint, add jobs, or invest in new equipment. Each award includes a forgivable grant component for businesses that meet specific milestones like opening, job creation, or revenue growth. Applicants are required to receive technical assistance from Envision Greater Fond du Lac to ensure they’re ready to succeed.

By investing in small business development across these four communities, the WRNC Business Opportunity Fund fosters entrepreneurship, job creation, and long-term economic vitality in Fond du Lac County. If you’re ready to grow, we’re ready to help. Please take a moment to complete this questionnaire to get started.

WRNC Business Opportunity Fund – Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the WRNC Business Opportunity Fund?
   The WRNC Business Opportunity Fund is a regional financial assistance program supporting small business start-ups and expansions in Waupun, Ripon, North Fond du Lac, and Campbellsport.
2. Who is eligible to apply?
   Eligibility is open to entrepreneurs starting new businesses and existing businesses expanding operations within the four participating communities. Applicants must be current on property taxes and municipal bills.
3. What types of funding are available?
   Two programs are offered: the WRNC Start-Up Fund (up to $10,000) for new businesses and the WRNC Expansion Fund (up to $25,000) for businesses growing their operations.
4. How is the funding structured?
   Awards are structured as 80% low-interest loans and 20% forgivable loans (grants) contingent on meeting specific business milestones.
5. What can the funds be used for?
   Eligible uses include start-up costs, leasehold improvements, equipment purchases, facility expansions, hiring and training staff, marketing efforts, and more.
6. Is matching funding required?
   While a match is encouraged to strengthen the application, it is not required.
7. What technical assistance is required?
   Applicants must work with Envision Greater Fond du Lac to ensure their business plan is viable before applying and must participate in at least one economic development program within a year of receiving funds.
8. How is the application reviewed and approved?
   A five-member Review Board, made up of municipal administrators and Envision Greater Fond du Lac leadership, evaluates all applications based on business viability, management capacity, financial strength, economic impact, and readiness.
9. Can I relocate my business from another city into a WRNC community using these funds?
   No, funds cannot be used to relocate a business from another Wisconsin community into Waupun, Ripon, North Fond du Lac, or Campbellsport.
10. How do I start the application process?
    First, complete the interest questionnaire. After you submit the form, a team member from Envision Greater Fond du Lac will reach out to provide technical assistance, confirm your project’s eligibility and viability, and guide you through the next steps. If your project qualifies, you’ll be invited to complete the formal application for Board review.