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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

Taking Advantage of Highschool–Small Business Partnerships

When most people think about economic development and the work that CEDC does, they often picture industrial parks, investment deals, or start-up programs like “BEAR” or “Hatch”. But one of the most important economic engines in our community can be found just down the road at the Chippewa Falls Area Unified School District (CFAUSD). That’s why we partner and have CEDC’s talent development programs. We are proud to highlight the ongoing partnership between Chippewa Valley businesses, and the CFAUSD. Under the leadership of Superintendent Jeffrey Holmes, the CFASUD has partnered even closer with CEDC. Holmes implemented strategic programs, valued open dialogue and shared goals, further helping local educators and entrepreneurs to work together to ensure the success of both our students and our economy. Why Schools Matter to Chippewa’s Small Businesses Small businesses [...]

Taking Advantage of Highschool–Small Business Partnerships2025-07-25T14:03:42-05:00

Reflecting on the Northern Wisconsin State Fair: Its Lasting Economic Impact on the Chippewa Valley

Another Northern Wisconsin State Fair has come and gone, and as we look back on last week’s event, it’s clear that its impact extends far beyond the fairgrounds. Each year, the fair draws tens of thousands of visitors to Chippewa Falls, creating a significant ripple effect across the local economy. From packed hotels and bustling restaurants to busy gas stations and retail shops, businesses throughout the Chippewa Valley feel the boost. For many local vendors, the fair isn’t just a summer tradition — it’s one of their biggest revenue-generating events of the year. Artisans, food vendors, entertainers, and service providers all benefit from the exposure and increased sales during fair week. The fair also serves as a showcase for our region. First-time visitors often return to explore more of what the Chippewa Valley [...]

Reflecting on the Northern Wisconsin State Fair: Its Lasting Economic Impact on the Chippewa Valley2025-07-15T15:00:28-05:00

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

CEDC Board Meeting at Automation Displays Inc. Strengthens Regional Economic Connections

At CEDC fostering strong partnerships is central to our BEAR mission. Our recent board meeting, hosted at Automation Displays Inc. (ADi)’s Eau Claire campus, provided a dynamic platform for strategic discussions, relationship building, and exploring opportunities to drive economic growth in the Chippewa Valley. The meeting also welcomed new board members Mark Bergh of B&B Electric, Matt Guse of MRS Machining Co, and Jason Plante of Market & Johnson, whose expertise strengthens our collaborative efforts. The gathering brought together our CEDC board members who come from several different industries, each bringing their own unique perspectives to the table. The agenda featured our CEDC Board Meeting, roundtable discussions, and a tour of ADi’s state-of-the-art facility, creating an environment for collaboration on shared challenges and innovative solutions. Founded in 1971 by two engineers from a [...]

CEDC Board Meeting at Automation Displays Inc. Strengthens Regional Economic Connections2025-06-27T13:22:02-05:00

Smoke, Sauce, and Strategy: CEDC Joins BBQ Fest

At CEDC we know that building a strong local economy means more than numbers and infrastructure—it’s also about community, connection, and culture. That’s why we’re excited to announce that CEDC has officially registered for the inaugural BBQ Fest happening on Saturday, September 6, 2025, at the Northern Wisconsin State Fairgrounds in Chippewa Falls. Under the team name C2BQ – Where Business Meets BBQ, we’re stepping into the Backyard BBQ competition, firing up the grill, and showing that economic development can be just as flavorful as it is impactful. Events like BBQ Fest bring people together, support local vendors, and spotlight what makes our region unique—a vibrant mix of entrepreneurship, hospitality, and good old-fashioned fun. We’ll be competing in all three categories—chicken, ribs, and the People's Choice pork loin—and we hope you’ll stop by, [...]

Smoke, Sauce, and Strategy: CEDC Joins BBQ Fest2025-06-27T13:23:09-05:00

Spectrum Industries Hosted CEDC Collaborative Showcase

At CEDC, fostering a culture of connection is at the heart of our Business Expansion, Attraction, and Retention (BEAR) program. We believe that strong business relationships drive sustainable growth, which is why we launched the Collaborative Showcase program—a unique initiative designed to bring together industry leaders, partners, and advocates for open dialogue and shared learning. What Is the Collaborative Showcase? The Collaborative Showcase is a two-hour gathering hosted at a CEDC stakeholder’s facility. These events provide a platform for local businesses and community leaders to connect, learn from one another, and explore new opportunities for collaboration. By meeting face-to-face, participants can build genuine relationships that help strengthen the economic fabric of our region. A Special Gathering at Spectrum Industries Our most recent Collaborative Showcase was graciously hosted by Spectrum Industries in Chippewa Falls. [...]

Spectrum Industries Hosted CEDC Collaborative Showcase2025-06-05T12:18:55-05:00
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