Make it on Main Street: Volume III coming soon

Wilmington Works, an organization dedicated to revitalizing and celebrating Wilmington’s historic downtown, announces the return of its business plan competition “Make it on Main Street: Volume III.” With a cash prize of $40,000, this is an incredible opportunity for entrepreneurs to kickstart, expand or relocate their brick and mortar business into downtown Wilmington.

Inaugural winners Butter Mountain Bakery and 802 Fitness are still in business today, successful and thriving. From the second competition, Cherry Press Printmaking is celebrating its one-year anniversary, and Butter Mountain Bakery received support for the expansion of the business. These continued successes highlight the lasting impact of the program and inspire the business community to look ahead.

Entrepreneurs are invited to submit an initial letter of intent and application between Monday, May 18 and Monday, June 29. Entrants selected for round two will be paired with experienced business mentors and asked to submit a full business plan by Friday, September 4. Finalists advancing to round three will participate in a public oral presentation on Friday, October 16. The winner will receive $40,000 to support the opening of the business.

This competition was first inspired by Paul Pabst, a long-time second homeowner in the Deerfield Valley. The revival of the competition is thanks to Dan Kilmurray, who directed remaining funds from the Wilmington Fund toward this initiative, allowing the competition to return in 2024 and again this year. Additional funding is being provided by Wilmington Works, alongside sponsorships from local businesses and organizations including The Hermitage Club, Southern Vermont Realty Group, Joseph Saladino Property Maintenance, Green Mountain Power, DVFiber, the Town of Wilmington’s Event Fund, Brattleboro Development Credit Corporation, the Deerfield Valley News, Southern Vermont Deerfield Valley Chamber of Commerce, and The Richards Group.

This competition is open to all entrepreneurs, but to succeed, businesses must demonstrate how they will serve Wilmington’s diverse community, including locals, second homeowners, and seasonal tourists. Wilmington Works is looking to support a business that will truly contribute to the heart and character of the town. Businesses that provide strong employment opportunities and diversify the local economy are particularly encouraged to apply.

Interested entrepreneurs are invited to read the full rules and learn more about the project at wilmingtonworksvt.com. For more details or questions contact Samantha Kondracki, Executive Director, Wilmington Works at (802)234-1433 or wilmingtonworks@gmail.com.