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So far Charlie Walker has created 331 blog entries.

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

Economic Development Is A Continuing Journey of Independence

As fireworks light up the night sky and families gather for barbecues, the 4th of July stands as a powerful symbol of freedom and independence. Beyond the celebrations, it's a time to reflect on the broader concept of independence, particularly economic development and its role in sustaining the freedom our forefathers fought for. When the Declaration of Independence was signed in 1776, it wasn't just a political statement; it was a call for economic autonomy. The American colonies sought to break free from the mercantilist policies of the British Empire, which restricted their trade and stifled economic growth. The founders envisioned a nation where economic freedom would pave the way for prosperity and innovation. Economic development is crucial in maintaining and expanding the independence celebrated on the 4th of July. It involves improving [...]

Economic Development Is A Continuing Journey of Independence2024-07-09T12:07:16-05:00

BEAR Team Visits Red Cedar Agronomy

The Chippewa Economic Development Corporation (CEDC) actively engages with local businesses through its Business, Expansion, and Retention (BEAR) Program. An important part of this program is our BEAR VISITS where CEDC staff, board members, and stakeholders visit our local employers. These business expansion and retention visits are important to economic development because they help strengthen local businesses, help identify any challenges small businesses may be facing, and provide support solutions to better ensure entrepreneurs long-term success. By maintaining existing businesses, communities can retain jobs, generate economic stability, and foster growth and development. Led by CEDC Board Member Karen Smith of Security Bank, a BEAR VISIT was organized and held at Red Cedar Agronomy. Red Cedar Agronomy, owned by Agronomist Jake Zwiefelhofer, is an independent agronomy service providing Pioneer Seed, Pattern Ag Soil Sampling, [...]

BEAR Team Visits Red Cedar Agronomy2024-06-28T14:10:41-05:00

CHIPPEWA COUNTY, WISCONSIN ISSUED BDO ZONE ‘A’ RATING FOR CORN STOVER

(Chippewa Falls, WI) June 25th, 2024 - The BDO Zone Initiative has issued a BDO Zone ‘A’ rating for Chippewa County, Wisconsin for 380,000 bone dry tons per year of corn stover. The Chippewa Economic Development Corporation (CEDC) and Ecostrat are pleased to announce the establishment of a Chippewa BDO Zone and the issue of an investment grade ‘A’ Rating for Corn Stover for the Zone. The BDO Zone Initiative certifies regional readiness for bio-based manufacturing, creates global connections with project developers, and ignites an influx of clean energy opportunities. The Chippewa County BDO Zone is the first ‘A’ rating in the State of Wisconsin and extends a 75-mile drive distance from Chippewa Falls, WI.A BDO Zone rating is an internationally recognized standards-based technical risk assessment of biomass feedstock, supply chain, and infrastructure [...]

CHIPPEWA COUNTY, WISCONSIN ISSUED BDO ZONE ‘A’ RATING FOR CORN STOVER2024-11-07T15:03:43-06:00

The Economic Power of Sports

Sports are more than just a source of entertainment and community pride; they are a powerful economic engine driving substantial financial activity worldwide. From professional leagues to local youth teams, the economic impact of sports is vast and multifaceted. Professional sports leagues generate billions of dollars annually through ticket sales, broadcasting rights, sponsorships, and merchandise. Major events like the Super Bowl, the World Series, and the Olympics attract massive global audiences, driving advertising revenues and boosting host city economies through tourism and infrastructure investments. The construction and maintenance of stadiums and sports facilities create jobs and stimulate local economies, while ancillary businesses such as hotels, restaurants, and retail outlets benefit from the influx of fans. At the grassroots level, sports contribute to economic development through youth leagues and community programs. These activities promote [...]

The Economic Power of Sports2024-07-09T12:50:30-05:00
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