In the world of entrepreneurship and community building, Brad Feld often speaks about the principle of “Give First.” It’s the idea that lasting ecosystems are built when people contribute without immediately asking, “What do I get in return?” That mindset is deeply aligned with how we approach economic development at CEDC. So on Valentine’s Day its a natural reminder that strong relationships are at the center of meaningful progress. While flowers and chocolates symbolize appreciation in February, our gratitude for our investors and stakeholders extends far beyond a single day.
Economic development is built on partnership. It requires trust, shared vision, and a willingness to invest in long-term success. Our investors and stakeholders embody the Give First philosophy. They step up not simply for recognition, but because they believe in the future Chippewa. They are more than financial supporters—they are champions of growth, advocates for opportunity, and collaborators in shaping the future of the Chippewa Valley.
Why Our Investors Matter
Every project we pursue in our BEAR programs—whether supporting an expanding manufacturer, assisting an entrepreneur with a startup idea, facilitating workforce connections, or recruiting new businesses—happens because of the confidence our investors place in us. Their financial commitment allows us to:
• Proactively recruit and retain businesses
• Support capital access and expansion efforts
• Strengthen workforce and education partnerships
• Advocate for policies and infrastructure that drive growth
• Market our community as a competitive place to live, work, and invest
Without investor support, economic development becomes reactive. With it, we can be strategic, forward-looking, and intentional.
The Power of Give First
Valentine’s Day is about commitment, and that’s exactly what our stakeholders demonstrate year-round. Banks, manufacturers, small businesses, utilities, educators, municipalities, and community leaders come together around a shared belief: that the Chippewa Region is worth investing in. The Give First mindset shows up in our volunteer leadership (Board of Directors), mentorship, regional collaboration, and financial support that fuels behind-the-scenes work most people will never see. It shows up when CEDC stakeholders and partners lean in to help a growing company solve an infrastructure, workforce challenge, or supply chain issues. It shows up when local organizations collaborate instead of compete. It shows up when our community leaders invest time and resources because they believe in long-term impact. It’s that kind of collective commitment that sends a powerful message to site selectors, entrepreneurs, and expanding companies: this community works together, is open for businesses, and invests in themselves. We show up. When a business chooses Chippewa, they are choosing a network of partners invested in their success.
Why It Matters
Strong communities are built intentionally—through collaboration, shared investment, and a willingness to lead with generosity. CEDC Investor support fuels the foundational work that creates lasting impact: business retention visits, showcases, HATCH, development-ready site preparation, grant coordination, workforce initiatives (STEAM), and regional advocacy. Every dollar invested in our economic development programs multiplies in impact through job creation, an expanded tax base, increased household income, and enhanced quality of life. But beyond the numbers, it reflects something even more important: belief in our potential.
With Gratitude
This Valentine’s Day, CEDC simply wants to say thank you!
Thank you for believing in our mission.
Thank you for investing in growth.
Thank you for leading with a Give First mindset.
At CEDC, we truly love what we do—and we are grateful to do it alongside investors and stakeholders who care deeply about the future of this community. Together, we are building something that lasts far beyond February 14. Here’s to strong partnerships, shared vision, and continued growth in the year ahead.