DECI's Jump-Start Downtown is a business competition for entrepreneurs who have opened a new business or relocated their's in downtown Eau Claire. The 1st place award is a grant of $5,000 in start-up capital! The 2024 cycle was just awarded at DECI's Annual Awards, The Ducky's on March 6. Congratulations to Grand Prize Winner, Leona's Pizzeria! Scroll down to learn about all three winners!
The next cycle, for 2025, will open at the end of this year and will be open to any business that opened/relocated to downtown in 2024 or will be in 2025. Any type of business is eligible, from cafes, high-tech offices to gift shops! Be in the know about the 2025 cycle by filling out the contact form!
2024 Cycle Winners
Leona's Pizzeria
Leona's opened the first week of March 2025, after a very long journey securing their permanent home in the North Barstow district downtown. This dream started for Brittany and Jacob during the pandemic as Covizza, which quickly gain a very dedicated local following and love. The pizzeria offers pizza by the slice for a quick lunch option and sit down dining as well. Leona's passion for pizza is clear with the first bight! Focusing on unique flavors that rest on crust made fresh in-house it is quick to become an Eau Claire favorite for all! Don't miss the opportunity to watch a show at in their venue space as well or stop by on warmer days to enjoy their patio!
Website: leonaspizzeria.com
Address:
406 Galloway St
Eau Claire, WI 54703
Phone: (715) 514-4519
3 Month Coven Membership
Mr. Kitty's
Cat Cafe & Boutique
Mr. Kitty's Cat Cafe & Boutique opened in 2024 in the South Barstow District in downtown! Offering a great cup of coffee is only the start of any visit to their cafe, located in an old church. Mr. Kitty's offers the opportunity to enjoy a room full of cats! Working with the Eau Claire Humane Association to foster cats for the space and the ability to adopt as well! Since their opening they have helped find permanent homes for dozens of cats! Be sure to check them out and get some purr fill cuddles!
502 S Farwell St, Eau Claire, WI 54701
Website: mrkittyscatcafe.com
Address:
502 S. Farwell St
Eau Claire, WI 54701
Phone: (715) 514-1910
E.L. Pilates
With over 12 years of experience, Liz has built E.L. Pilates into a premier studio serving the Eau Claire area. After training in WI and CO, she established E.L. Pilates in 2020, specializing in private and semi-private sessions, post-rehab clients, and those managing chronic pain.
In July 2024, the studio relocated to their new home in the North Barstow BID expanding to include group equipment and mat classes. With nine weekly classes and growing demand, Liz hired an instructor in October 2024 and plans to add another in January 2025.
Blending Classical and Contemporary Pilates, Liz prioritizes proper body mechanics and individualized instruction. View the full class schedule at elpilates.com or on the Mindbody app.
Website: elpilates.com
Address:
331 Riverfront Terrace
Eau Claire, WI 54703
Phone: (970) 999-2988
Additional Thanks to Volume One!
Each winner received a $500 advertising voucher!