Upper Iowa University has opened the annual application process for its Upper Iowa Business Development grant, which offers up to $100,000 to start a new business, relocate a current business or expand an existing business within the city limits of Fayette.

The grant was established through an initial $500,000 endowment donated to the university by long-time benefactors Bob and Betty Firth in support of entrepreneurship. Since the endowment was established, the grant has helped fund renovations at Fayette Flooring and helped build SK Rogers Funeral Home and Victories Restaurant and Sports Lounge.

Applications for the grant are available online. Application deadline is 5 p.m. on April 20. For more information, contact Andrew Wenthe at wenthea@uiu.edu or (563) 425-5348.