 The top three finalists are in for the Destination Downtown Business Challenge in Brainerd. Sarah Winkelman spoke with the three businesses that remain in the competition. Destination Downtown is a community initiative that's all about downtown revitalization. The first phases of the contest started back in July when 13 storefronts in Downtown Brainerd were empty, but 49 applicants had other ideas for that space. And those now were narrowed down to three and those three have presented to the judges like in a shark tank style presentation. One of the businesses remaining would bring a new concept to Brainerd. On my car distillery we have two different licenses. We'll be able to manufacture spirits on site and we'll also be able to have a tasting room where we can feature the spirits that we manufacture. Lisa and her husband Bill are thrilled that the Brainerd Distilling Company is still in the running. Bill and I had this dream of owning our own business and when the contest came up it was just a good opportunity for us to start exploring our idea and we never thought we'd end up in the final three. Joining the top three is Brenda with her Purple Fern Bath Company, a bath and body boutique. Incorporating classes so people can learn how to do their own soaps, salts, bath bombs. Everybody loves bath bombs. What is currently a hobby Brenda hopes to soon make a downtown business. Absolutely a huge step up and I'm pretty excited about it. I've I've dreamt of owning my own business for well my lifetime and I really feel like this is the right business at the right time. Of the remaining top three finalists in the destination downtown contest the only one with a current business in downtown Brainerd is the Last Turn Saloon. The business plan for the Last Turn Saloon is to expand the size of the dining area and add some meeting space as well as a micro brewery. Ed is hopeful about the future of his historic downtown location. I'm excited that they they like my plan you know I mean just to have that that that you know kind of a pat on the shoulder good job you're doing the right direction. The winner will receive a community prize package worth more than $50,000 to jump start their business or expansion. Reporting in Brainerd Sarah Winkleman, Lakeland News. The winner will be announced one week from today on November 16th. If you've enjoyed this segment of Lakeland News please consider making a tax-deductible contribution to Lakeland Public Television.