Sometimes the most valuable economic development happens not in a boardroom, but on a shop floor.
Recently, CEDC, in partnership with the New Auburn Area Development Corporation (NAADC), hosted a Collaborative Showcase that brought together more than twenty business owners and community leaders for a day centered on connection, collaboration, and conversation. The day featured tours of New Auburn Cheese Company and Auburn Rod and Custom, each offering a unique look at the innovation, craftsmanship, and entrepreneurship that help drive our regional economy.
By opening their doors, both businesses offered far more than a tour. They shared their stories, their experiences, and the passion behind what they do every day.
Attendees had the opportunity to see firsthand what it takes to build and operate successful businesses in rural Wisconsin. From the entrepreneurial vision and commitment to quality behind New Auburn Cheese Company to the specialized expertise and precision craftsmanship of Auburn Rod and Custom, participants gained a deeper appreciation for the diverse businesses that strengthen Chippewa County’s economy and create opportunities throughout the region.
While learning about local businesses is valuable, one of the greatest benefits of events like this is the opportunity they create for business owners to connect with one another.
Throughout the day, conversations naturally turned toward the opportunities and challenges facing employers across the region. Business leaders exchanged ideas on workforce availability, housing, childcare, and how communities can continue creating an environment where businesses and families can thrive. These discussions reinforced an important reality: while every business has its own story, many of the challenges – and the opportunities to address them – are shared.
When employers have opportunities to meet, tour one another’s facilities, and build relationships, they strengthen the local business community. Those connections can lead to new partnerships, supplier relationships, shared resources, and innovative ideas. Just as importantly, they foster trust and collaboration, helping businesses tackle common challenges together rather than in isolation.
For CEDC, these conversations are just as valuable as the tours themselves. Listening to local employers helps identify emerging needs, shape future initiatives, and ensure economic development efforts remain focused on supporting business growth, strengthening existing industries, and building long-term economic resilience.
These showcases also highlighted the importance of partnerships between economic development organizations. By working together, CEDC and NAADC connected businesses, expanded professional networks, and created opportunities that extend well beyond a single community. Collaboration like this strengthens the entire regional economy.
Strong economies are built on strong relationships.
Every conversation, every shared idea, and every new connection contributes to a business community that is more resilient, innovative, and prepared for the future. Events like this Collaborative Showcase remind us that economic development is about more than sites, buildings, and infrastructure. At its heart, it is about people investing in one another, learning from one another, and working together to create opportunity.
CEDC extends its sincere appreciation to the NAADC for its partnership in making this event possible, as well as to New Auburn Cheese Company and Auburn Rod and Custom for graciously opening their doors and sharing their stories. We also thank every business owner and community leader who participated and contributed to meaningful conversations throughout the day.
We look forward to creating more opportunities that bring businesses together, strengthen relationships, and build a more prosperous future for Chippewa County and the surrounding region.