July 7, 2026
EAU CLAIRE, Wis. – Royal Credit Union (Royal) has launched its Small Business Grant program to support entrepreneurs and small businesses in the Chippewa Valley. The program will award a $3,000 grant to one local business located in one of the following Wisconsin counties: Chippewa, Clark, Dunn, Eau Claire, Trempealeau, or Taylor.
Applications are now open and will be accepted through October 1, 2026. The winner will be announced in November. The program is designed to empower early-stage and growing businesses with resources to support their success.
"Small businesses play a vital role in creating vibrant communities and local economic growth," said Karlee Wallin, VP – Business Banking at Royal. " Whether you’re just getting started or building momentum, this $3,000 grant can help support meaningful investments in your business, from startup costs to equipment and technology upgrades."
Eligible small business owners are encouraged to apply through Royal's online application process. Applications will be evaluated using a scoring process that considers financial need, business plan strength, and community impact.
"This Small Business Grant reflects the credit union philosophy of 'People Helping People' and Royal's commitment to creating a positive impact in the lives we touch," said Jennifer McHugh, Royal's VP - Community Engagement. "We are proud to support entrepreneurs and small business owners whose passion, innovation, and dedication help strengthen our communities and create opportunities for others."
Additional details, eligibility requirements, and application information are available at rcu.org/SmallBusinessGrant.
About Royal Credit Union
Royal Credit Union is a federally insured credit union proudly serving over 340,000 Members in Minnesota and Wisconsin. Royal is driven by a core ideology built on a strong purpose and values. Royal was recognized by Forbes as one of America’s Best-In-State Credit Unions 2026 in Wisconsin and Minnesota. You can open an account or apply for a low-rate loan at Royal Credit Union if you live or work in 26 counties in western Wisconsin or 16 counties in Minnesota. Counties served in Wisconsin include Adams, Ashland, Bayfield, Barron, Buffalo, Burnett, Chippewa, Clark, Douglas, Dunn, Eau Claire, Jackson, Lincoln, Marathon, Pepin, Pierce, Polk, Portage, Price, Rusk, Sawyer, St. Croix, Taylor, Trempealeau, Washburn, and Wood. Counties served in Minnesota include Anoka, Carver, Chisago, Dakota, Goodhue, Hennepin, Isanti, Olmsted, Pine, Ramsey, Scott, Sherburne, Wabasha, Washington, Winona and Wright. A complete list of Member eligibility requirements is available on the Royal Credit Union website. To learn more about Royal, visit rcu.org or call 800-341-9911.
