Early Planning Grant

The Early Planning Grant (EPG) program is designed to help individual entrepreneurs and small businesses throughout Wisconsin obtain the professional services necessary to evaluate the feasibility of a proposed start up or expansion. Under the EPG program, the Wisconsin Entrepreneurs’ Network (WEN) – with funding from the Wisconsin Department of Commerce – can provide applicants with a grant to help cover a portion of the cost of hiring an independent third party to develop a comprehensive business plan. In addition to formalizing an entrepreneur's goals and objectives, a well-prepared business plan is critical to the applicant's ability to attract the capital financing necessary for the business to be successful.

Eligible EPG project costs are limited to the professional services necessary to obtain a comprehensive business plan. Professional services must be provided by independent third party service providers listed in the WEN Private Sector Service Provider Directory. Providers not listed in the Directory may use the electronic application form to set up an account and create an online profile.

The maximum funding available for Early Planning Grants is 75% of eligible project costs up to $3,000. There is typically more demand for EPG funds than there are funds available. As a result, the application process is competitive and not all projects can be funded.

For more information, please view the detailed description of the EPG program (PDF).