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The Rise of the Entrepreneurial Generation: How CEDC Is Aligning with Tomorrow’s Founders

A quiet revolution is reshaping the workforce. Today’s rising generation doesn’t just want a job—they want to plant, nurture, build, and grow something of their own. According to recent research, 84% of Gen Z express interest in entrepreneurship. That’s more than a passing trend; it represents a fundamental shift in how young people think about work, risk, and opportunity. Where previous generations often sought long-term security through employment—perhaps at a local manufacturing company—Gen Z increasingly views entrepreneurship as the safer bet. They are driven by purpose, autonomy, and ownership. For many, building a business isn’t just about chasing an idea; it’s about creating stability, flexibility, and a future they control for themselves and their families. At CEDC, we’ve been watching this shift unfold across Chippewa County, the Chippewa Valley, and throughout Wisconsin—and we’re [...]

The Rise of the Entrepreneurial Generation: How CEDC Is Aligning with Tomorrow’s Founders2026-02-25T15:11:56-06:00

Visibility, Relationships, and Readiness: Positioning Chippewa County for Growth

Economic growth doesn’t happen by accident. It happens through relationships, preparation, and showing up consistently in the conversations that shape investment decisions. In today’s fast-moving and highly competitive economy, communities are no longer just competing with neighboring counties — they are competing nationally. For Chippewa Economic Development Corporation (CEDC), that reality shapes how we approach business attraction and long-term growth in 2026. One thing is clear: visibility matters. Corporate expansion and relocation decisions often start months — sometimes years — before a community ever receives a call. Those early conversations are guided by professional site selectors and consultants who evaluate regions on behalf of companies. If a community is not actively building relationships with those decision-makers, it is unlikely to be considered when opportunities arise. That is why CEDC has made it a [...]

Visibility, Relationships, and Readiness: Positioning Chippewa County for Growth2026-02-20T15:50:52-06:00

A Valentine to Our Investors and Stakeholders

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. [...]

A Valentine to Our Investors and Stakeholders2026-02-16T12:54:36-06:00

Empowering Local Growth Through the Revolving Loan Fund

Since its establishment, the Chippewa Economic Development Corporation (CEDC) has continually sought innovative ways to support local businesses and stimulate economic growth. A significant milestone came in 2005 when CEDC spearheaded efforts to create a regional Revolving Loan Fund (RLF). This initiative consolidated various local loan funds—many originally seeded by federal dollars—into one robust pool of resources known as RBF, Inc. Empowering Small Businesses Since 2006, a dedicated committee of CEDC board members has been reviewing and recommending applications for the Chippewa RLF, and since 2007, for the RBF, Inc. Chippewa County loans as well. Today, these funds stand as powerful tools for nurturing our local economy. By providing essential financial resources to startups and small businesses, these RLFs foster a sustainable cycle of support that transforms our communities. Revolving Loan Funds act [...]

Empowering Local Growth Through the Revolving Loan Fund2026-03-09T16:06:04-05:00

Data Centers, Done Right: Positioning Us for Responsible Growth

As data centers appear more often in national and regional headlines, it’s natural for local communities—especially rural ones—to have questions. These facilities are large, energy-intensive, and highly technical, and without the right safeguards in place, they can raise concerns about utilities, water resources, and long-term community impact. At CEDC, we believe the question is not simply whether data centers belong in Chippewa, but under what conditions they make sense. For several years, CEDC has worked alongside state and local leaders to ensure communities are informed, protected, and positioned to take advantage of data center opportunities when they arise—and when they align with local priorities. When developed under the right conditions, data centers can be a strong fit for Chippewa's broader economic development strategy. They represent significant, long-term private investment and contribute a stable [...]

Data Centers, Done Right: Positioning Us for Responsible Growth2026-01-14T17:40:28-06:00

2025 A Year of Progress, Placed Piece by Piece

The story of 2025 for the Chippewa Economic Development Corporation (CEDC) is really the story of a community placing one puzzle piece after another—each CEDC supporter, collaborator, and partner helping to complete a clearer picture of what Chippewa can become. Every event, pitch, training, connection, and conversation added a new edge or corner, and by December, the table was covered in signs of progress that only came into focus because so many hands chose to build together. Communities at the core In May, more than 450 leaders gathered for CEDC’s 30th Annual Meeting under the theme “Communities at the Core,” filling the Eau Claire Event District with a sense of shared purpose that set the tone for the entire year. National workforce leader Sylvie Nelson challenged local employers to go “above and beyond” [...]

2025 A Year of Progress, Placed Piece by Piece2025-12-31T13:56:38-06:00

Advocacy That Drives Change

Advocacy is at the heart of CEDC’s mission. Each year, we unite businesses, community leaders, and partners to meet with legislators and elevate the issues that matter most to Chippewa County. Over the past three years, CEDC has supported more than 27 bills, with over a dozen now enacted into law. For instance-CEDC for years have been advocating for the establishment of a Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation Talent Recruitment Grant Program which would provide funding to help local governments and organizations attract new residents from outside the state— showcasing what makes Wisconsin an exceptional place to live, work, and build a future. This was realized this past year when Wisconsin Act 15 was signed by Governor Evers. The grant program is now open to eligible applicants with a mission of economic development, workforce [...]

Advocacy That Drives Change2025-12-11T16:23:11-06:00

Ripples of Giving: How We Raise the Chippewa Tide Together

Today, on the Day of Giving, we are reminded of the power of generosity and the impact it has on shaping our local communities. Here in the Chippewa Valley, the Chippewa County Economic Development Corporation (CEDC) is more than just an organization—it is a catalyst for growth, opportunity, and resilience. Our work is powered by community investment because when our community invests in economic development, everyone benefits. After all, a rising tide truly lifts all boats. Economic development is not just about attracting businesses or creating jobs; it is about building a stronger foundation for everyone. At CEDC, we create an environment where businesses can grow, entrepreneurs can thrive, and residents can access new opportunities. By expanding manufacturing and retail opportunities, supporting startups and small businesses, and investing in critical infrastructure, the benefits [...]

Ripples of Giving: How We Raise the Chippewa Tide Together2025-12-02T16:36:13-06:00

Gratitude, Growth, and the Orange Army

Here in Chippewa, usually the first real cold of the season settles in around Thanksgiving. The Chippewa River starts to grow quiet, frost laces the windows of our downtown boutique shops, and orange and pink dots emerge in the woods as Wisconsin’s legendary “orange army” heads out for deer season. It’s a time marked by traditions—family tables, early-morning hunts, and the simple comfort of being together. That same spirit of connection is what fuels CEDC mission and actions. We’re more than an office on Technology Way. We’re neighbors helping neighbors build the entrepreneur ecosystem where businesses strengthen our communities, create opportunities, and position the next generation for continued wealth creation. Entrepreneurship in rural Wisconsin isn’t for the faint of heart! Often, you’re up early, long before sunrise, sometimes firing up the coffee pot [...]

Gratitude, Growth, and the Orange Army2025-11-21T13:44:54-06:00

HATCH 2025: Honoring Veterans, Inspiring Entrepreneurs

Imagine a room buzzing with energy — a vibrant mix of entrepreneurs, small business owners, investors, and mentors breaking down barriers over drinks and hors d’oeuvres. Conversations flowed freely, laughter echoed over shared stories of failure, and new ideas sparked with every exchange. This was the Failing Forward cocktail hour at East Bay Lodge on Veterans Day — a prelude to CEDC’s HATCH 2025, our high-energy, shark tank–style pitch event designed to transform bold ideas into thriving ventures. Hosting HATCH on Veterans Day was no coincidence. CEDC proudly took the opportunity to honor the courage, leadership, and resilience of those who have served our country. Veterans embody the same qualities that define great entrepreneurs — grit, adaptability, and a commitment to something greater than themselves. That spirit wove through the evening as we [...]

HATCH 2025: Honoring Veterans, Inspiring Entrepreneurs2025-12-22T13:06:33-06:00
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