Nauvoo, Illinois — The Nauvoo Business Development Group is proud to announce the winners of its recent Business Plan Competition, the culmination of a series of business development classes designed to support and grow local entrepreneurship.

The classes, hosted by Grow Nauvoo and the Nauvoo Tourism Office with assistance from the Small Business Development Center, guided participants through the process of building a strong, actionable business plan. Topics included market research, financial planning, marketing strategy, and operational development. Participants then submitted completed business plans and delivered presentations showcasing their ideas and vision.

This year’s competition resulted in a tie, recognizing two outstanding local entrepreneurs for their innovation, preparation, and commitment to growing business in Nauvoo.

McKenzie Bryant, owner of Bryant Homestead, and Lyuba Hall, founder of Bake Royale LLC, were each awarded a $300 prize.

Bryant Homestead is already a familiar name in the community, hosting Nauvoo’s Farmers Market and operating a farm stand featuring allergen-friendly baked goods. Bryant Homestead can be contacted through their Facebook page or by calling McKenzie at 217-577-7022. McKenzie Bryant’s business plan focused on expanding access to fresh, inclusive food options, gluten-free and allergen friendly baking, while continuing to create a welcoming gathering space for residents and visitors alike.

Lyuba Hall’s Bake Royale LLC offers European-style baked goods, deserts, pastry and breads currently available through custom orders with delivery or pick up serving local markets through Hancock and Adams County. The company can be contacted through their Facebook page or website at BakeRoyale.com. Her business plan outlined the next steps in her journey: opening a tea room in Nauvoo where guests can enjoy her pastries in an inviting, old-world atmosphere as well as receiving approval to serve SNAP program clients.

“The Business Plan Competition is about more than just an award—it’s about building confidence, skills, and momentum for our local entrepreneurs,” said Rebecca Williamson Nauvoo Tourism Director. “We are excited to see both of these businesses continue to grow and contribute to Nauvoo’s vibrant small business community.”

The Nauvoo Business Development Group, along with its partners, remains committed to fostering economic growth by supporting new and existing businesses through education, mentorship, and opportunity.

For more information about future classes or business development opportunities in Nauvoo, please contact the Nauvoo Tourism Office. www.beautifulnauvoo.com or Grow Nauvoo www.grownauvoo.org ###