Downtown Main Street announces restaurant challenge

After a successful Retail and Restaurant Challenge this summer saw six businesses open or expand, Red Wing Downtown Main Street is offering another challenge specifically for restaurants.

Applications are already open and submissions will be accepted through Nov. 30.

One winner will be chosen in this challenge and will receive up to $40,000.

The challenge is open to new restaurants looking to open in downtown Red Wing, restaurants that operate in other towns but want to add a second location in Red Wing and current downtown Red Wing restaurants looking to relocate or renovate their space. Priority will be given to the first two categories.

Priority will also be given to proposals that focus on dinner and lunch to broaden Red Wing’s offerings in the evening hours.

The initial application is a short form available on the Downtown Main Street website. 

Applications chosen for the second round must submit a detailed business plan by Dec. 31 and make a business pitch to the Retail and Restaurant Challenge Committee on Jan. 5, 2026.

In addition to the prize money, the winner will receive assistance in securing a location for their restaurant as well as marketing and networking guidance from Downtown Main Street.

Funding for the challenge is provided by the Downtown Philanthropic Collaborative, which consists of local foundations Albrecht-Poss Family Foundation, Jones Family Foundation, Red Wing Area Fund and Wings Foundation.

More information and Challenge rules can be found at https://www.downtownredwing.org/2025-retail-and-restaurant-challenge/2025-retail-and-restaurant-challenge.

This story originally appeared in the Red Wing Republican Eagle.