Chippewa County: A Great Place to Build and Grow

Time to Grow with the BDO Zone

BDO (Bioeconomy Development Opportunity Zone)

The collaboration between the Chippewa Economic Development Corporation (CEDC) and EcoStrat is paving the way for a new era of innovation and growth in the Chippewa Valley. Through the Bioeconomy Development Opportunity (BDO) Zone Initiative, we are unlocking the region’s abundant agricultural biomass potential, fostering the expansion of biobased industries that contribute to both the economy and the environment.

EcoStrat, an industry leader in biomass supply chain management, has partnered with CEDC to guide the certification process for our BDO Zone. This groundbreaking initiative introduces a regional biomass supply chain certification and rating system designed to accelerate the development of bio-based clusters within our community.

The BDO Zone Rating system, with levels ranging from ‘AAA’ to ‘BBB,’ provides a comprehensive framework for assessing the technical feasibility of biomass feedstock, supply chains, and infrastructure. These ratings serve as a valuable tool for directing investments to the most promising areas for bio-based manufacturing facility development.

We are proud to announce that the Chippewa County BDO Zone has earned an ‘A’ rating, a testament to the region’s robust biomass resources and infrastructure. This positions us for continued growth in sustainable industries, particularly as we focus on maximizing the potential of corn stover for bioenergy, soil enrichment, and bioproduct manufacturing.

Since receiving the USDA grant, CEDC has been actively collaborating with site selection consultants to explore opportunities within the Chippewa BDO Zone. Through strategic partnerships and initiatives, we are laying the groundwork for a thriving bioeconomy that drives economic development while prioritizing environmental sustainability. Together, we are shaping a prosperous future for the Chippewa Valley.

More About our ‘A’ Rating
Business In Focus

STAR (Sites That Are Ready)

Since its launch in 2007, CEDC has been a leader in meeting the demand for project-ready properties in Chippewa County through the innovative “Sites That Are Ready (STAR)” program. The STAR program has earned a reputation for streamlining the property acquisition process, making it easier for businesses to find and develop the ideal locations for their needs.

At CEDC, being “ready” means offering a carefully curated portfolio of STAR sites, each thoroughly vetted and evaluated before being made available for purchase. This approach simplifies decision-making for businesses, helping them quickly identify properties that align with both their current and future development goals.

The STAR sites in Chippewa County are optimized for immediate development, ensuring that businesses can move forward without delays. By reducing risk and accelerating timelines, these sites offer a distinct advantage for investors looking to make an impact in the region.

Through CEDC, businesses gain access to a wealth of resources, expert guidance, and a strong support network designed to help them succeed. Our dedicated team works closely with clients to connect them with financial programs and other resources, driving the development process and contributing to continued economic growth in the region.

Certified Shovel-Ready Sites

As part of our commitment to providing prime development opportunities, CEDC is proud to offer CERTIFIED SHOVEL-READY SITES as a key element of our STAR Sites development continuum. These sites undergo a rigorous due diligence process, ensuring they meet the highest standards of readiness and investment suitability.

Through CEDC’s LOIS application, you can explore the best industrial sites and commercial buildings available for rent or sale in the Chippewa Valley. LOIS is an advanced, national online location analysis tool designed to showcase the region’s diverse inventory of sites and buildings. With its integrated GIS capabilities, LOIS provides users with detailed market information, demographics, workforce data, infrastructure details, housing statistics, and insights into various business and industry sectors.

Chippewa County’s premier Certified Shovel-Ready Sites have been thoroughly vetted, with extensive due diligence completed, including planning, zoning, surveys, title work, environmental studies, soil analysis, and public infrastructure engineering. These sites have received official certification from the State of Wisconsin and Xcel Energy, guaranteeing a smooth and expedited development process for investors.