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Opportunity Zone 2.0: Charting the Next Chapter for Chippewa County

CEDC knows that economic development is about more than attracting investment. It’s about creating lasting opportunities for growth that benefit everyone in our area. That’s why in 2016/17  CEDC  advocated for the establishment of a Chippewa County Opportunity Zone, what is known as Census Tract 105 in Chippewa Falls. This area was identified as  a Low-Income Community Opportunity Zone and forwarded on to the state and federal government for designation. Covering 7.4 square miles and home to around 5,400 residents, the Census Tract 105 was officially designated as the only Opportunity Zone in Chippewa County. This federal designation provides tax incentives for investors who direct capital into projects that revitalize underserved areas. As a result, Chippewa Falls gained  valuable projects and attracted new investment that increased the net new construction and brought more tax revenue into local governments coffers. For [...]

Opportunity Zone 2.0: Charting the Next Chapter for Chippewa County2025-09-23T15:30:52-05:00

Driving Defense Contracts – Jobs and Growth for Chippewa and Western Wisconsin

For communities across Wisconsin, economic development organizations (EDCs) such as the CEDC play a critical role in supporting local businesses. Encouraging participation in the defense supply chain is one part of strengthening our region. Chippewa Valley’s role in supporting our nation’s defense is both substantial and growing. With our partners, CVTC, WPI, and NDIA, CEDC is helping organize and promoting an upcoming Defense Manufacturing Supply Chain Conference (DMSCC).  This conference provides a unique opportunity for manufacturers, suppliers, and innovators to learn how to better engage with the Department of Defense (DOD) and the broader federal contracting landscape. Events like this one can: Connect local businesses to federal opportunities they may not otherwise pursue. Help diversify revenue streams for manufacturers, protecting against downturns in other markets. Encourage workforce development and job creation through high-skill, [...]

Driving Defense Contracts – Jobs and Growth for Chippewa and Western Wisconsin2025-09-16T13:45:04-05:00

Smoked, Sauced, and Strategized: CEDC Heats Up!

CEDC was fired up—literally and figuratively—as our very own barbecue team, C2 BBQ, proudly competed in the inaugural Northern Wisconsin State Fair BBQ Cook-off. Thousands of BBQ cook-offs now take place annually across the U.S. and internationally, attracting pitmasters, foodies, and tourists. Events like the American Royal in Kansas City and the Jack Daniel’s Invitational in Tennessee are considered BBQ’s Super Bowls-and there is no doubt the Northern Wisconsin State Fair's cook off is headed in that direction. This sizzling new event brought together pitmasters from across the region for a day filled with smoky flavors, live music, food trucks, and festive camaraderie. But for CEDC’s team—Ken Pearson, Paul Olson, Casey Hedrington, and Charlie Walker—it was about more than just chicken and ribs. It was a chance to showcase the heart of our organization: [...]

Smoked, Sauced, and Strategized: CEDC Heats Up!2025-09-09T10:19:58-05:00

Celebrating Labor Day by Investing in TWI

CEDC has long understood that true economic growth comes not just from recruiting new businesses, but from strengthening the companies already embedded in our communities. For over 30 years, CEDC has focused on creating opportunities and bolstering regional economic success by keeping communities at the core of every initiative. As we reflect on Labor Day—a time to honor the contributions of workers who drive our economy—it’s clear that strong leadership is not a luxury; it’s a necessity. That’s why the Chippewa County Economic Development Corporation (CCEDC) is proud to partner with the UW-Stout Manufacturing Outreach Center (MOC) on a proven workforce development tool that can elevate local business support: Training Within Industry (TWI). Originally developed during World War II to rapidly train industrial supervisors, TWI has stood the test of time. Its structured, [...]

Celebrating Labor Day by Investing in TWI2025-09-02T14:15:31-05:00

Legislators Visit Area Manufacturers with CEDC to Foster Statewide Collaboration

In the heart of Chippewa County, manufacturing isn’t just an industry—it’s a cornerstone of our community growth, innovation, and economic resilience. That’s why it’s so critical to bridge the gap between policymakers and those that power our local economy. One old fashion way to do that is to just invite them in. CEDC helped coordinate a visit from Representative Clint Moses, who took that commitment a step further by also inviting Wisconsin Assembly Majority Leader Tyler August to join him on learning more about some of the region’s leading manufacturing companies: TTM Technologies, KYMA Batteries, and Alliance Plastics. This wasn’t just a photo op—it was a hands-on opportunity for legislators to witness the ingenuity, challenges, and day-to-day realities of Wisconsin’s manufacturing sector. Engaging directly with manufacturers is one of the most effective ways [...]

Legislators Visit Area Manufacturers with CEDC to Foster Statewide Collaboration2025-08-20T16:28:55-05:00

Shining a Spotlight on Second-Stage Success with BEAR ’25

Wisconsin—and the Chippewa Valley in particular—lags behind some other states and regions in new business formation and job creation per startup. The rate of new business launches has also declined in recent years. Recognizing this challenge, the Chippewa Economic Development Corporation (CEDC) has been working to change the trend. We’re focusing on increasing support density, backing founders, and building a stronger ecosystem for growth—especially for second-stage companies. You might be surprised to learn just how many second-stage companies operate right here in western Wisconsin. These are typically privately owned, growth-oriented firms with annual revenues between $1 million and $50 million and at least 10 employees. They’ve moved beyond the early hurdles of starting up and are now focused on scaling their operations, expanding into new markets, and creating lasting value in their industries. [...]

Shining a Spotlight on Second-Stage Success with BEAR ’252025-08-15T16:23:18-05:00

SBDC Celebrates New On-Campus Location at UW-Eau Claire

The Wisconsin Small Business Development Center (SBDC) at the University of Wisconsin–Eau Claire has officially moved onto campus, making it easier for Blugold students and faculty to support entrepreneurs and drive small business growth throughout the Chippewa Valley. On June 5, the SBDC transitioned from its former location at 221 W. Madison St. to Schneider Hall, home of UWEC’s College of Business. To mark the occasion, the SBDC joined the College of Business, Eau Claire Area Chamber of Commerce, and Chippewa Falls Area Chamber of Commerce in hosting a ribbon-cutting ceremony. The Chippewa County Economic Development Corporation (CEDC) was proud to attend alongside community and business leaders to show support for this important partner. “We’re often described as one of UW-Eau Claire’s best-kept secrets when it comes to supporting small businesses,” said Harlie [...]

SBDC Celebrates New On-Campus Location at UW-Eau Claire2025-08-05T12:15:48-05:00

Sarah Kowal Blogging for CEDC-From Founder to Capital Connector: A Western Wisconsin Entrepreneur Comes Full Circle with BEAR ’25

When I was building WeatherVane Creamery (note: website intentionally frozen in time), I was trying to do more than just open a vibrant Wisconsin-themed deli in River Falls- I was painting a vision. I wanted people to see what I saw: a vital, community-centered, proudly Wisconsin space that could become something special right now, not “someday.”   And thankfully, people did see it. I built an advisory board of experts, restaurateurs, and dairy industry insiders. I crowdfunded. I launched investor dinners. I had the American Cheese Society's stamp of approval. I got a ton of media coverage. It was alive and moving, being the scrappy Western Wisconsin founder working tirelessly to rally Cheeseheads.   What I didn’t have… was a clear investor path. Ask any rural founder in these parts, and they’ll likely tell you a [...]

Sarah Kowal Blogging for CEDC-From Founder to Capital Connector: A Western Wisconsin Entrepreneur Comes Full Circle with BEAR ’252025-07-31T16:47:34-05:00

The Story of Steaks, Strategy, and the Secret Sauce for Economic Development

The steaks hit the grill with a satisfying hiss, smoke curling into the early evening air. Dan adjusted the heat and turned to Charlie, who stood nearby sipping a bourbon old-fashioned, sleeves rolled up and a smirk forming. “Careful,” Dan said, “you’ll end up branding that grill with a motivational quote.” Charlie laughed. “Dan-Funny you say that. I’ve had this phrase stuck in my head all week: ‘Be Kind, Rewind.’ Sounds cute, right? An era of VHS manners- Camaros and cassette tapes. But the longer I’m in economic development, the more it feels like a good playbook.” Dan leaned against the restaurant railing, curious. “Alright, I’ll bite—what’s kindness got to do with infrastructure and investment?” “Everything,” Charlie said. “At Chippewa Economic Development Corporation, we’re here to grow our community—not just by building business [...]

The Story of Steaks, Strategy, and the Secret Sauce for Economic Development2025-07-01T16:36:14-05:00

Built to Connect: Inside the CEDC Collaborative Showcase at Hixwood Metals

CEDC's Collaborative Showcase series brings together local businesses, industry leaders, and community advocates to foster meaningful connections and highlight innovation throughout the Chippewa Valley.Each two-hour, onsite event—hosted by CEDC stakeholders across the region—offers participants a chance to tour local facilities, engage in cross-sector dialogue, and explore opportunities for partnership and growth. These showcases not only strengthen individual organizations but also contribute to the vitality of the broader regional economy.Our most recent showcase took place at Hixwood Metals in Stanley, Wisconsin. Known for its high-quality post-frame building kits, metal roofing, and steel coil products, Hixwood has become a trusted supplier for contractors and builders across the Midwest and beyond. Their product offerings also include portable sheds, garages, and a wide array of custom building accessories—all delivered with a strong commitment to craftsmanship and customer [...]

Built to Connect: Inside the CEDC Collaborative Showcase at Hixwood Metals2025-06-25T14:21:56-05:00
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