The 2026 Fremont County Start-Up Challenge is now accepting applications through February 28th for new business ideas in the area. You can apply online here.
The format for Start Up Challenges is a 4-stage process: an application period; a selection period where semi-finalists are chosen by a panel; semi-finalists are narrowed to the final group in each of two categories; a “Pitch Night” where the finalists present their idea in front of a panel of judges.
Applicants will compete either as a “Homegrown Business” – an existing or new small local business – or “Fremont Futures,” a business that is creating a product or service that leverages technology to transform an industry (or the community).
Winners in both categories will receive:
- 1st Place – Seed money (cash prize); co-working space; executive training sessions with Bootstrap; one-year membership to the Riverton Chamber of Commerce
- 2nd Place – Seed money (cash prize)
- 3rd Place – Seed money (cash prize)
Applying for the Fremont County Start Up Challenge is free and open to those with an idea or the beginnings of one! Interested entrepreneurs answer a few questions describing their business idea, product, or service, and explain the market they plan to serve.
You can download an application form here and drop off at: Central Wyoming College (2660 Peck Ave, Riverton), HS 140. You can also complete the application online!
For more information about the Fremont County Start-Up Challenge or to download the rules, visit the Bootstrap Collaborative online.
The Bootstrap Collaborative is a joint effort between Central Wyoming College, County 10, Makerspace 307 and the Wind River Development Fund. Its intention is to help new and existing businesses and entrepreneurs succeed and prosper while providing events and networking.