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

Beyond Deals and Dirt: How Advocacy Is a Strategic Economic Development Tool

Entrepreneurial development doesn't happen in a vacuum. While ideas, talent, and capital are critical, the policies and programs that shape the business environment often determine whether entrepreneurs can start, grow, and stay local. That's why legislative advocacy is a core part of Chippewa Economic Development Corporation’s (CEDC) economic development strategy. At the CEDC, our work to support entrepreneurs extends beyond direct business assistance. We actively engage with state and federal policymakers to ensure that laws, funding programs, and regulations support—not hinder—entrepreneurial growth in Chippewa County. Policy Affects Entrepreneurs Entrepreneurs are directly affected by public policy, often in ways that aren't visible until they create a barrier. Access to capital, workforce availability, housing supply, infrastructure investment, broadband access, and regulatory clarity all have a direct impact on small businesses and startups. CEDC Advocacy helps [...]

Beyond Deals and Dirt: How Advocacy Is a Strategic Economic Development Tool2026-03-27T14:34:47-05:00

2025 CEDC Annual Meeting Highlights Community as the Core of Economic Growth

The 2025 CEDC Annual Meeting, was held on Friday, May 16. The meeting coincided with Economic Development Week, a time to reflect on regional progress and sets the tone for continued growth and collaboration. The theme of this year’s annual meeting was Communities at the Core. The gathering-one of the Chippewa Valley’s largest business networking events-is a time for local economic development stakeholders to reflect on the organizations past 12 months of work in assisting local businesses, making entrepreneur connections, and helping local communities grow. Over 350 attendees connected at the Eau Claire Event District while keynote speaker Sylvie Nelson, a nationally recognized leader in workforce development, reminded the audience that bold ideas and going beyond expectations is the only way to create real change for communities. “Businesses Must Step up even more, go above [...]

2025 CEDC Annual Meeting Highlights Community as the Core of Economic Growth2025-06-03T16:23:12-05:00
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