Call Us Today! 1-715-723-7150|staff@chippewa-wi.com

About Charlie Walker

This author has not yet filled in any details.
So far Charlie Walker has created 335 blog entries.
Facebook

Securing the Future: The Crucial Role of Cybersecurity for Chippewa Manufacturers

In today's digital age, the importance of cybersecurity cannot be overstated, especially for Department of Defense (DoD) manufacturers in the Chippewa Valley. These manufacturers are crucial to national security, making them prime targets for cyberattacks from state-sponsored actors, organized crime groups, and opportunistic hackers. A successful cyberattack on Western Wisconsin's DoD manufacturers could have catastrophic consequences, potentially compromising sensitive defense information, disrupting operations, and endangering national security. To address these critical cybersecurity needs, the Wisconsin Procurement Institute and UW-Stout Manufacturing Outreach Center (MOC), in collaboration with Chippewa Valley Technical College (CVTC) and the Chippewa Economic Development Corporation (CEDC), hosted a BEAR Discussion event. This event tackled the pressing challenges faced by the manufacturing sector. Expert speakers, including Stephen Casselman, IT-Network Specialist Instructor at CVTC’s Center for Cyber Defense, Ron Thomas, Senior Management Engineer [...]

Securing the Future: The Crucial Role of Cybersecurity for Chippewa Manufacturers2024-08-20T14:15:57-05:00

CEDC Holds Board Meeting at Farm Technology Days with a Focus on Healthcare

On the last day of Farm Technology Days, the Chippewa Economic Development Corporation (CEDC) held a pivotal board meeting, bringing together community leaders both in person at the Hixwood building and virtually. This meeting was significant not only for its venue—Wisconsin's largest outdoor agricultural event—but also for its focus on a topic crucial to the future well-being of the Chippewa Valley: healthcare. The highlight of the meeting was a presentation by Patti Darley, Vice Chair of the Chippewa Valley Health Cooperative (CVHC), who provided an in-depth look at the organization's mission and services. As she addressed the CEDC board members, half of whom joined via Zoom, Darley emphasized the importance of making high-quality healthcare both accessible and affordable for all residents in the Chippewa Valley region. The Chippewa Valley Health Cooperative is a [...]

CEDC Holds Board Meeting at Farm Technology Days with a Focus on Healthcare2024-08-19T08:48:54-05:00

Chippewa County Involved Since ’68

During the early summer event held from June 25-27, 1968 the focus was on hay harvesting. The show faced significant challenges due to heavy rainfall, which disrupted activities and made the event notably muddy. A long-time attendee remarked that this was the wettest show they've ever experienced, with rain falling for ten days prior, resulting in 1.5 to 2.0 feet of mud in the tent area. Additionally, the forage crop was not at its peak maturity, further complicating the event. Despite these issues, nearly 400 lots were sold in Tent City. At the end of the show, a local jokester mysteriously drove away with a display tractor, which was eventually found in Missouri. The event took place on The Chippewa County farm (now Lake Wissota Business Park) which included around 120 dairy cows [...]

Chippewa County Involved Since ’682024-08-05T17:35:32-05:00

70 Years of Farm Technology Shines With CEDC Help

Two years ago, CEDC began the task of leading the effort to bring 2024 Wisconsin Farm Technology Days to Chippewa County. This year marks a momentous milestone for Wisconsin Farm Technology Days (FTD), as we celebrate 70 years of showcasing agricultural advancements and fostering community spirit. Since its inception as Farm Progress Days in 1954, FTD has grown into one of the largest and most influential agricultural events in the country, reflecting the dynamic evolution of Wisconsin’s agricultural industry. FTD has always been at the forefront of agricultural innovation. The event began as a way to highlight the latest in farming technology, techniques, and equipment, providing a platform for farmers to learn, share, and adopt new practices that enhance productivity and sustainability. Over the decades, FTD has remained true to this mission, adapting [...]

70 Years of Farm Technology Shines With CEDC Help2024-08-05T17:37:17-05:00

BEAR Lunch and Learn: Unleashing Our Economic Potential with New Markets Tax Credits

Bremer Bank recently hosted the CEDC Business Expansion And Retention (BEAR) lunch and learn. These BEAR events are part of the CEDC's existing business assistance program aimed at helping entrepreneurs gather for engaging discussions, listen to insightful speakers, enjoy lunches from local businesses while discussing ideas which help unleash their growth potential. Brad Shultz, Regional President and Paul Keprios Relationship Manager/Vice President of Bremer Bank welcomed and introduced Vassil Zanev Bremer's Senior Vice President/Capital Markets Director Vassil Zanev to explain New Market Tax Credits to the group. The New Markets Tax Credit (NMTC) program is a powerful tool aimed at revitalizing economically distressed communities across the United States. By incentivizing private investment, it drives growth, creates jobs, and fosters community development in the region. Established by Congress in 2000 as part of the [...]

BEAR Lunch and Learn: Unleashing Our Economic Potential with New Markets Tax Credits2024-07-30T19:29:30-05:00

CEDC Honors Board Member Albert Edward Holand III (Ed), 1959-2024

It is with deep sadness that CEDC communicates the passing of Board Member Albert Edward Holand III, known to many as Ed, who died suddenly of a heart attack on July 28th, 2024. Ed was a visionary entrepreneur who owned CN Manufacturing in Boyd, a dedicated CEDC board member, and a pillar of our community whose impact will be felt for generations to come. Ed's entrepreneurial spirit ignited at the young age of 17 when he started his first business, a driveway sealing company, with his best friend Kevin Barrick. This early venture was just the beginning of a remarkable career that would span decades and touch numerous industries. After spending time in Hawaii rebuilding houses as a contractor in the wake of a devastating hurricane, Ed returned to the mainland with renewed [...]

CEDC Honors Board Member Albert Edward Holand III (Ed), 1959-20242024-11-26T13:54:49-06:00

Embracing the Concept of Holistic Health as a Possible Economic Cluster

The holistic health industry is poised for continued growth in the Chippewa Valley. As more individuals and businesses prioritize health and wellness, this industry is expected to expand further, offering new opportunities for innovation and local economic development. CEDC recently held a BEAR Discussion with over 10 different entrepreneurs and healthcare professionals to discuss why preventative healthcare is crucial for businesses in the Chippewa Valley. By promoting regular check-ups, vaccinations, and healthy lifestyles, businesses can significantly reduce healthcare costs, as early detection and management of health issues are generally less expensive than treating advanced illnesses. Healthier employees are more productive, leading to reduced absenteeism and improved workplace morale. Additionally, showing concern for employees' health enhances job satisfaction and retention rates, as workers are more likely to stay with a company that values their [...]

Embracing the Concept of Holistic Health as a Possible Economic Cluster2024-07-26T14:39:03-05:00

Chippewa County Awarded a BDO Zone

CEDC is the pioneering business services consultant in Chippewa County, Wisconsin. The organization supports hundreds of regional entrepreneurs and businesses, helping them reach their full potential from the startup stage onwards. The CEDC’s efforts to attract, retain, and expand local businesses have fostered a vibrant and thriving startup ecosystem in the area. CEDC provides continuous guidance and tools to empower entrepreneurs throughout the Chippewa Valley. With this in mind the CEDC has spent the last year working with the agricultural community on establishing a BDO Zone for the region. The BDO Zone Initiative certifies regional readiness for bio-based manufacturing, fosters global connections with project developers, and drives the influx of clean energy opportunities. A BDO Zone rating is an internationally recognized, standards-based technical risk assessment of biomass feedstock, supply chain, and infrastructure risk, [...]

Chippewa County Awarded a BDO Zone2024-07-26T15:12:34-05:00

WI FARM TECHNOLOGY DAYS “GROWS TO THE TUNE OF SUCCESS” IN 2024

CADOTT, WI: Wisconsin Farm Technology Days, the state's premier agricultural exposition, is set to take place in Cadott from August 13th to 15th, 2024. Hosted at Close Farms and the Country Fest grounds, this year's event promises to be a dynamic showcase of cutting-edge farm technology, innovation, and sustainable agricultural practices. Wisconsin Farm Technology Days is an annual celebration that brings together farmers, industry experts, and agricultural enthusiasts to explore the latest advancements in the field. This year's event in Cadott will provide a platform for agricultural professionals to connect, learn, and exchange ideas, with a focus on enhancing productivity, sustainability, and overall farm efficiency. Key event highlights will include: Exhibition of State-of-the-Art Farm Machinery: Leading manufacturers will showcase their latest machinery and equipment, offering attendees a firsthand look at the technological innovations [...]

WI FARM TECHNOLOGY DAYS “GROWS TO THE TUNE OF SUCCESS” IN 20242024-07-12T11:42:22-05:00

The Northern Wisconsin State Fair – A Boost for Chippewa Falls

The Northern Wisconsin State Fair is more than just 5 days of fun and festivities; it’s a cherished tradition that brings our community together and has a significant positive impact on Chippewa Falls. Every year, residents and visitors eagerly anticipate the fair, which showcases our region's agricultural heritage, local talent, and vibrant culture. The fair is a major economic driver for Chippewa Falls, drawing thousands of visitors from across the state and beyond. Local businesses experience a surge in activity as fairgoers dine at restaurants, stay in hotels, and shop at stores. The influx of visitors boosts revenue for local merchants and creates seasonal job opportunities, providing an economic lifeline for many small businesses. Agricultural exhibits and competitions are at the heart of the fair, highlighting the importance of farming in our community. [...]

The Northern Wisconsin State Fair – A Boost for Chippewa Falls2024-07-09T13:10:21-05:00
Go to Top