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Showcasing Chippewa County’s Progress with WEDC

Chippewa’s economic development inertia is not built on a single project or a single conversation. It comes from the steady work of businesses, developers, local leaders, and community partners who are helping create the kind of places where people want to live, work, and invest. That spirit was on display recently when CEDC welcomed John W. Miller, Cabinet Secretary and CEO of the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation, and Ray French, WEDC Regional Economic Development Director, for a visit focused on the projects and partnerships shaping the future of our county. Led by Charlie , the morning offered more than a tour. It told the story of a community investing in its future through thoughtful development, strong collaboration, and a clear understanding of what drives long-term growth. Building for what comes next At Lake [...]

Showcasing Chippewa County’s Progress with WEDC2026-07-30T15:02:41-05:00

Local Businesses and Big Brands

Many people looking at economic development think industrial/manufacturing recruitment and retail recruitment travel on two parallel roads. One road is one that seems focused on jobs and logistics, the other road on consumer spending and placemaking. A common concern among many folks is whether recruiting these national manufacturing firms or national retailers will typically hurt our locally owned “Main Street” businesses. Here at CEDC we believe the strongest communities work to do and support both. Recruiting big-name manufacturing projects have shown that they invest heavily in the community where they expand to and operate in. They tend to provide additional funds for schools, community foundations, and other social services beyond what their local tax bill shows. These types of corporate investments help to create a stronger, more vibrant community which benefits everyone. It’s also [...]

Local Businesses and Big Brands2026-06-29T11:29:26-05:00

Over 15 Years of Driving Success: CEDC Annual Charity Golf Outing

If you are There is a unique kind of magic that happens when business acumen meets community spirit on the fairways. For the past decade and a half, the (CEDC) has harnessed this exact synergy through its Annual Charity Golf Outing. This year marked a monumental milestone: the 15th anniversary of an event that has become a cornerstone of both local CEDC’s philanthropy and economic stakeholder networking combination. What began fifteen years ago as a humble gathering of local business leaders looking to connect outside the boardroom has blossomed into one of the most highly anticipated events on the region’s corporate and social calendars. But the CEDC Charity Golf Outing is much more than just a day of friendly competition and fresh air—it is a powerful engine for local economic development’s charitable giving. While [...]

Over 15 Years of Driving Success: CEDC Annual Charity Golf Outing2026-06-29T12:41:15-05:00

A Day Before the Big Event!

Every year, the Chippewa Economic Development Corporation's annual meeting serves as a reminder of something easy to forget in the day-to-day grind of economic development work — that real, lasting progress is built by people who genuinely care. This year's event was no exception, and I was fortunate-no not the right word-I was blessed to spend a few days hosting our Keynote speaker before and after the CEDC event. The day before Maggi Thorne—known to many as a standout competitor on NBC’s American Ninja Warrior—inspired business and community leaders at CEDC annual meeting, she spent time doing something just as important: investing in our next generation. One of the most impactful moments that came of my time with Maggi is when she spoke to the Chippewa Falls 8th grade class. She didn’t just [...]

A Day Before the Big Event!2026-05-21T12:01:57-05:00

Rogers Groundbreaking More than Turning Dirt!

CEDC was proud to celebrate the groundbreaking of the new Rogers Behavioral Health hospital in Chippewa Falls—a project that represents a major accomplishment for our organization, our partners, and the entire Chippewa Valley. The groundbreaking event was more than just turning dirt. It was in part about a gathering in a field to witness a shared belief that strong communities don’t happen by accident — they believe in economic development and are built on purpose. One of the things we talk about a lot in economic development is speed to market. Communities that move quickly — and thoughtfully — are the ones that win. This project is a great example of that. From vision to action, Rogers Behavioral Health, the city, the County, the State (From the Senate, Governor, and agencies)- all working [...]

Rogers Groundbreaking More than Turning Dirt!2026-05-01T16:04:03-05:00

From a Century of Care to a New Beginning in Chippewa County

When the groundbreaking begins for the new Rogers Behavioral Health hospital in Chippewa Falls, it will represent far more than the start of construction. It marks the continuation of a legacy more than a century in the making—one now taking root in the Chippewa Valley. A Legacy Rooted in Wisconsin Rogers Behavioral Health traces its origins back to 1907, when Arthur Rogers and his wife Theresa opened a small health retreat in Oconomowoc. What began as a quiet, nature-based place for healing has grown into one of the nation’s leading independent behavioral health systems. Over the past 100+ years, Rogers has expanded well beyond its original campus—advancing research, developing specialized treatment programs, and delivering care for mental health, addiction, and eating disorders. Today, the organization operates across the country, serving children, teens, and [...]

From a Century of Care to a New Beginning in Chippewa County2026-04-15T17:25:51-05:00

#FlyEAU — What Communities Without Air Service Wish They Had

In economic development, you don’t always learn the value of an asset by having it. Sometimes you learn by watching others lose it.  Across the Midwest, communities without reliable commercial air service are discovering—often the hard way—that air access is not a luxury. It is one of the core infrastructure requirements for a growing community. Once it’s gone, rebuilding it is costly, slow, and uncertain. However- here in the Chippewa Valley we are fortunate. We have the Chippewa Valley Regional Airport (CVRA) that connects us to a major hub (Chicago), one that supports business growth, and one that keeps us competitive. There are many communities our size that would trade places with us in a heartbeat!  It’s easy to overlook something that’s always been there. But when you step back and really think [...]

#FlyEAU — What Communities Without Air Service Wish They Had2026-03-24T10:34:22-05:00

Supporting Neighbors, Strengthening Community

Access to timely, high quality mental health and addiction care can change the trajectory of a life. For many individuals and families, however, the greatest barrier to healing is not willingness. It is cost. The Rogers Behavioral Health Foundation exists to remove that barrier, ensuring more people can access the care and support they need when they need it most. Through community support and philanthropic giving, the Foundation helps provide financial assistance to patients who otherwise might not be able to receive treatment. These resources allow individuals and families to focus on recovery rather than the financial burden that can come with seeking care. Events and partnerships within the community play an important role in supporting this mission. By coming together through initiatives and fundraising opportunities, community members and organizations help expand access [...]

Supporting Neighbors, Strengthening Community2026-03-16T17:25:12-05:00

A Feast of Curiosity — How STEAM Night Served Up the Future

When area students, families, regional manufacturers, and employers gathered for this year’s STEAM Night held on to the campus of Chippewa Falls High School, it felt less like a school event and more like a “community banquet of curiosity”. From robotics demonstrations to digital art displays, from coding challenges to physics-in-action experiments, tables across the commons and hallways buzzed with energy. Each station offered kids a new flavor of discovery — a chance to sample the skills that will shape tomorrow’s workforce.  Hosted in partnership with CEDC and the Chippewa Falls High School science teachers and staff-the evening invited students and families to explore an inspiring buffet of hands-on experiences that celebrated Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math. What made STEAM Night truly special was the way parents also leaned in — not [...]

A Feast of Curiosity — How STEAM Night Served Up the Future2026-03-16T17:23:41-05:00

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
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