This Page Contains 4 Weeks Data - Click Here For This Week

Wisconsin Development News (click here to read online)


Ken Harwood
Advocating for Wisconsin
HarwoodKen [at] Gmail.com
608.334.2174

This Weeks Articles for 2/13/2025 ...

  1. UW-Eau Claire marketing alumna finds award-winning success in economic development...
  2. City selects developer for Weinbrenner Shoe Co. factory building in downtown Marshfield...
  3. ‘Creative’ financing used for 74 affordable homes in Milwaukee...
  4. GOP bill would expand low-income housing tax credit program...
  5. Old prisons in the United States get new lease of life as stylish apartments ...
  6. Wisconsin: Investing In Statewide Growth...
  7. Madison buying South Park Street properties with plans to raze buildings, seek developer ...
  8. Shocking Setback: Wisconsin Risks Losing $55 Million for EV Chargers...
  9. Downtown business group to unveil new resource guide for 160+ biz owners...
  10. DATCP Announces Appointment of Julie Lassa as Administrator...
  11. Wisconsin Cheese Makers Association (WCMA) Launches Exciting New Marketing Opportunities...
  12. 2 GOP state lawmakers pushing to advance nuclear energy in Wisconsin...

   ...Full Story Here

Social Links


520-acre data center campus planned in Beaver Dam, Wisconsin


A data center campus could be coming to Wisconsin.

Local press including WPR and Daily Dodge report an unnamed developer is looking to build a campus in Beaver Dam in Dodge County, some 60 miles northwest of Milwaukee.

A company working through the Degas LLC affiliate is seeking to invest around $567m developing a data center campus on a 520-acre site previously marketed as the Beaver Dam Commerce Park. The site is located along US Highway 151, Hemlock Road, and County Highways A and W – it is on sale for $20,000 per acre.

Trent Campbell of the Beaver Dam Area Development Corporation confirmed to the press that the Beaver Dam Area Development Corporation, the city of Beaver Dam and Alliant Energy are working in partnership on a potential data center project.

Campbell said the project has yet to be finalized but “significant progress” had been made. The city has approved development and water/wastewater agreements with the potential end user.

“The entity we are working with is currently attempting to obtain non-local project approvals. Any future development will be dependent on the success of those efforts,” he said. “While site preparation work may commence in the coming weeks, facility construction and related local permitting would not take place until all required project approvals are secured.”

The end-user behind the Degas affiliate has not been named...

See Also:

Data center could come to Beaver Dam as similar projects spark concerns about energy demand

Beaver Dam plans for $567 million data center development


   ...Full Story Here

Ken Notes: Wisconsin`s no property tax on equipment and being able to pull from the grid power made in the west prior to Chicago and the east coast make Wisconsin an ideal candidate for data centers.

Social Links


Downtown project features 269 apartments and MATC athletics center. Construction starts this summer


Construction is to start this summer on a downtown Milwaukee development that features nearly 300 apartments and a Milwaukee Area Technical College athletic facility.

The Deer District facility is being developed by the Milwaukee Bucks and J. Jeffers & Co. on a block bordered by West Juneau, West McKinley and North Phillips avenues and North King Drive.

That lot, owned by a Bucks affiliate just east of The Trade Hotel, is among the parcels left vacant when the former Park East Freeway was razed.

The development would feature 269 higher-end apartments ? mainly studio and one-bedroom units ? within a seven-story building, said John Donoghue, Jeffers & Co. design director....


   ...Full Story Here

Ken Notes:The Deer District is special!

Social Links


Mastercraft Ventures launching with $2.4M investment from Badger Fund


A new venture capital fund called Mastercraft Ventures is launching in Beloit with a $2.4 million investment from the state’s Badger Fund of Funds. 

This marks the sixth VC fund to have the Badger Fund as its lead investor and the first in Rock County, according to a release from Mastercraft. The fund manager, Mason Cook, previously led software company RealityBLU in Beloit. 

“I’ve always focused on taking career roles and finding experiences that I would love to see in an investor for my own company,” he told WisBusiness.com in a recent interview. “You know, somebody who’s run their own business, they’ve raised funding and they’ve worked in the trenches of a startup. And I don’t think many investors understand the startup journey from both sides of the table.” ...

   ...Full Story Here

Social Links


UW-Eau Claire marketing alumna finds award-winning success in economic development


When Melissa Meschke graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire with a degree in marketing in 2012, she was excited to explore the broad spectrum of career paths that her education offered her. And explore she did, across a wide range of industries and business types.

It was not until 2017, with a move back to Wisconsin after five years in Michigan, that Meschke found herself entering the realm of economic development.

Meschke was hired as the director of the Small Business Development Center at UW-Stevens Point and spent the next four years building her expertise in economic development.


   ...Full Story Here

Social Links


Fincantieri Marinette Marine wins Harbor Assistance Grant


Fincantieri Marinette Marine (FMM) will receive $3 million from the State of Wisconsin to improve marine infrastructure along the Menominee River where the company builds surface combatant ships for the U.S. Navy.

Governor Tony Evers and the Wisconsin Department of Transportation announced today that five in-state projects will receive more than $10 million in Harbor Assistance Program grants. These grants are intended to strengthen supply chain reliability, support waterborne freight and assist with economic development of Wisconsin’s coastal communities.  

FMM will use the funding to offset costs of dredging, repairing dock walls, installing mooring bollards and fenders to maintain the safe navigation and mooring of vessels built at the busy shipyard along the Menominee River. “These efforts will help us operate safely and continue to be a strong and vital community partner as we support the U.S. Navy,” said Mark Vandroff, CEO of FMM.    

“We are grateful that WisDOT Secretary Kristina Boardman and Gov. Tony Evers’ administration are committed to improving Wisconsin’s maritime infrastructure,” said Marco Galbiati, CEO of Fincantieri Marine Group. “We invested more than $300 million in the past three years to improve our facilities and to create an efficient and modern shipyard, and we believe that success is almost always a result of teamwork and shared commitment. I feel that we have a strong partnership here in Wisconsin.”...

   ...Full Story Here

Ken Notes: Wisconsin has a real opportunity to focus om it`s ports in the future.

Social Links


City outlines plans for development of last empty block in Downtown Madison


Madison is closer than ever to selecting a development partner for the last empty block in the heart of the city.

At a public meeting Monday evening, city staff presented a draft request for proposals for the 2-acre parking lot bounded by East Washington Avenue and East Main, South Butler and South Hancock streets, a couple blocks east of Capitol Square.

The city-owned Brayton Lot has about 270 parking stalls and was used most recently as a construction staging area for Madison’s new Bus Rapid Transit route. Buildings there could be up to 10 stories tall, staff said, with the potential for a couple of additional stories if some units are set aside for lower-income residents....

   ...Full Story Here

Social Links


City selects developer for Weinbrenner Shoe Co. factory building in downtown Marshfield


The council said the Milwaukee-based developer`s proposal stood out because of its family-centered residential character and its care for the history of the property.

MARSHFIELD – J. Jeffers and Co. will serve as the lead developer on redevelopment of the former Weinbrenner Shoe Company factory in Marshfield’s downtown.

The Common Council on Tuesday unanimously approved a Community Development Authority recommendation of the Milwaukee-based developer for the project after considering proposals over the last several weeks.

“I think the city should feel really good about having really four qualified, bona fide developers that had submitted RFQs for the project,” Ashley Winch, Community Development Authority member, said as she presented the recommendation...



   ...Full Story Here

Social Links


Wisconsin Development Partners


Partner Level Sponsors

SCS Engineers

 SCS Engineers®

Kraus-Anderson

The Gialamas Company



Miron Construction


About Sponsorship
   ...Full Story Here

Social Links


Housing partnership toolkit aims to address attainable housing shortage in western WI


In an effort to bridge the gap in attainable housing across western Wisconsin, the Western Wisconsin Housing Partnership Toolkit has been released to support municipalities, developers, and community …

ABOUT

This guide was created to support efforts to fill the gap in permanent, attainable housing inventory for people in five counties in Western Wisconsin: Dunn, Pierce, Pepin, Polk, and St. Croix.

By narrowing our target market to households with an income of approximately $53,000-76,000 in Polk/Dunn/Pepin Counties and $74,000-99,000 in Pierce/St. Croix Counties, the aim is to create housing priced between $160,000 -$250,000 in Polk/Dunn/Pepin Counties, and up to $300,000 in Pierce/St. Croix Counties. Note these ranges are based on data from 2023 and are subject to change.

This guide can support municipalities that have identified a need for more housing inventory in this range to be the right partners together to address the issue.


   ...Full Story Here

Ken Notes: The Tool Kit is at the link. And much of the data is good for anywhere in the state....

Social Links


‘Creative’ financing used for 74 affordable homes in Milwaukee


In Milwaukee, subsidies called tax incremental districts — or TIDs — have helped fund the Milwaukee Bucks’ Deer District development, Northwestern Mutual’s downtown campus and The Hop streetcar system.

Alder Russell Stamper II, who represents some of Milwaukee’s poorest census tracts, thought the tool could have an impact outside downtown.

“My district needs the most development, my district needs the most investment,” he said as he described his thought process to WPR. “Why can’t we draw up a TID for a neighborhood?”


   ...Full Story Here

Ken Notes: We should create legislation that would allow a city to invest in roads, infrastructure and land acquisition then make the area available to developers to build lower cost workforce housing. The investment could be recouped at the sale of the home and keeping some of the property taxes for a set number of years like a TID.

Social Links


Gov. Evers Announces Budget Investments to Support Wisconsin’s Farmers, Producers, Agricultural Industries Statewide


MADISON — Gov. Tony Evers, together with Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) Secretary Randy Romanski, today announced his plans to invest more than $80 million in his 2025-27 Executive Budget that will be introduced later this month to support Wisconsin farmers and farm families, producers, and processors and the state’s $116 billion agricultural industry statewide.

“Our farmers, farm families, and producers have been the backbone of our state for generations. Whether it’s been supporting the future research and workforce this industry needs to keep up with the demands of the 21st Century, ensuring rural communities have good roads, broadband, and water infrastructure to be successful, or fighting to make sure farmers have the support and mental health resources they need, I’m proud of our work to support Wisconsin farmers and farm families over the past six years. Our next state budget will continue to build upon our efforts to invest our farmers, producers, and agricultural industries,” said Gov. Evers. “Wisconsin’s agricultural industries are not only vital to our state’s economic success, they are part of our DNA as Wisconsinites and our culture and heritage. We’re going to keep working to support this vital industry and the farm families who make it all possible.”...


   ...Full Story Here

Social Links


GOP bill would expand low-income housing tax credit program


Legislation from Republican authors would expand the state’s Low-Income Housing Tax Credit program while requiring more than a third of the credits go toward rural projects.

Rep. David Armstrong, R-Rice Lake and Sen. Romaine Quinn, R-Birchwood, recently began circulating the bill for co-sponsorship. In a memo to other lawmakers, they note Wisconsin has a housing crisis as “there simply isn’t enough affordable housing” to meet demand from working-age residents.

“This in turn hurts, among other things, the ability of Wisconsin employers to recruit employees,” they wrote...


   ...Full Story Here

Social Links


Senator Baldwin Introduces Bipartisan Legislation to Support More Wisconsin Dairy Businesses


WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) and Marsha Blackburn (R-TN) introduced the Dairy Business Innovation Act of 2025, bipartisan legislation that will strengthen the Dairy Business Innovation Initiatives (DBII) to help more American dairy farmers and processors add value to their businesses, including creating new products, expanding their markets, and modernizing their production facilities. To date, the Baldwin-backed program has supported over 250 dairy farmers and processors in the Midwest, including 109 in Wisconsin.

“My Dairy Business Innovation Initiative has helped Wisconsin dairy farmers, producers, and cheesemakers grow their operations, tap into new markets, and innovate new products,” said Senator Baldwin. “From expanding facilities and growing their operations to improving packaging and lowering their shipping costs, this program has helped Wisconsin businesses grow their bottom lines and create jobs in our rural communities. I’m fighting to expand this vital program so more farmers, cheesemakers, and dairy processors have the tools to innovate and drive our rural economy forward.”...

   ...Full Story Here

Social Links


Old prisons in the United States get new lease of life as stylish apartments


UNITED STATES – Ms Diamond Pearson needed a new place to live and was looking for something with an industrial feel. When Liberty Crest Apartments in Fairfax County, Virginia, came up in her online search, she was intrigued.

“I checked it out and fell in love – the brick, the concrete floors – it was so beautiful,” said Ms Pearson, 32, who works at Fairfax County Schools. Every unit in the complex is unique and she liked that too.

It was not until she was signing the lease agreement that someone said: “Did you know this is an old prison?”.....

...In 2008, the county started working with The Alexander Company, a Wisconsin developer with expertise in historic preservation and adaptive reuse, to convert former cellblocks and other buildings, and to build new structures. The complex now includes 165 apartments – of which 98 per cent are leased – 157 town homes and 24 single-family homes, as well as commercial spaces....
   ...Full Story Here

Social Links


Superior council finalizes deal for Lake Superior Apartments


The project will redevelop the former Superior Elementary School building into 50 units of housing.

SUPERIOR — The pieces are coming together to turn the former Lake Superior Elementary School into a 50-unit apartment building.

The Superior City Council on Tuesday, Jan. 21, approved a development agreement with Lake Superior Apartments LLC, a cooperation agreement with the city’s Redevelopment Authority and authorized the creation of the city’s 19th tax increment district in support of the project.
Northland Outdoors Forecast: A few flakes and a blustery start to the weekend

Under the terms of the agreements, the Redevelopment Authority will provide a $300,000 development grant from money in its land sales account...


   ...Full Story Here

Social Links


County to receive $7 million in federal affordable housing funds


Dane County - On Tuesday, Jan., 14, U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) announced she helped deliver a $7 million investment to expand affordable housing in Dane County. The federal investment, which Senator Baldwin supported in annual funding legislation for 2024, will help build nearly 50 affordable homes, help address zoning and building codes, engage with new developers, and support infrastructure and affordable multi-family rental development.

“In almost every community in Wisconsin I visit, I hear from hard-working families who are struggling to find housing in their budget, and I’m committed to being part of the solution to boost the housing stock and bring down costs across the Badger State,” Baldwin said in a news release. “This investment for Dane County will help build nearly 50 homes for Wisconsin families, remove barriers and lay the groundwork for future affordable housing development so more families can live in the communities they love.”..


   ...Full Story Here

Social Links


Report: Wisconsin saw 3.9% increase in homelessness over past year


(The Center Square) – Wisconsin was a 3.9% increase in homelessness over the past year, according to a new report from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.

Wisconsin saw nine people experience homelessness per 10,000 people during the year.

The data showed that more than 5,000 in the state experienced homelessness in 2024 with 510 experiencing unsheltered homelessness.

The state has seen a 10.6% decrease in homelessness since 2007...


   ...Full Story Here

Social Links


Wisconsin receives $50 million to combat homelessness


MADISON, Wis. -- The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development Continuum of Care has announced that it will donate $50,497,248 to the State of Wisconsin in order to combat homelessness.

"This funding will provide vital resources to communities across the Great Lakes Region, helping individuals and families experiencing homelessness secure stable housing and essential services," Deputy Regional Administrator for the Great Lakes Region Jim Cunningham said. "By working closely with our local partners, we are making significant progress toward the shared goal of ending homelessness."...

   ...Full Story Here

Social Links


Wisconsin Development News Supporting Sponsors


Supporting Sponsors
Broihahn Management & Consulting




Engineered
Construction



Coalesce Marketing

Miron Construction

Findorff


Artis REIT






   ...Full Story Here

Social Links


USDA invests $14,000,418 in domestic biofuels and clean energy in Wisconsin


WOOD COUNTY--U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development Wisconsin State Director Julie Lassa announced that the USDA is investing $14,000,418 more in grant funding in Wisconsin to expand access to clean energy systems and increase the availability of domestic biofuels.

The investments announced are being made in 42 projects in 27 counties in Wisconsin through the Higher Blends Infrastructure Incentive Program (HBIIP) ($9,583,750 to three projects) and the Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) ($4,416,668 to 39 projects).
“The dozens of awards I’m announcing today will help lower energy costs and provide a historic opportunity for farmers and rural businesses to invest in clean energy systems and make energy efficiency improvements,” said Lassa. “Many of these investments are made possible with help from President Biden’s Inflation Reduction Act and will create more energy independence, save businesses money on their bottom-line, and strengthen economic development in rural communities.”

In Wood County, Travis Marti Farms, LLC, an agricultural producer in Vesper, will use a $415,000 REAP grant to install a roof-mounted solar electric array. This project is expected to save $29,580 per year. It will replace 405,203 kilowatt hours (82 percent of the company’s energy use) per year, which is enough energy to power 40 homes...
   ...Full Story Here

Social Links


Title of Tallest Mass Timber Building Could Come Back to Milwaukee


Plans are gaining momentum in Milwaukee for two mass timber-concrete hybrid buildings, including one that would rise more than 50 stories tall and thereby gain the title of the tallest such structure in the world. 

C.D. Smith Construction, based in Fond du Lac, Wis., is the contractor for both projects. The structural engineer is Thornton Tomasetti. Both firms were part of teams selected by the City of Milwaukee to develop and build both The Edison, a 32-story residential tower, and for The Marcus Center, a multi-use development with a residential tower that would have 55 stories....

   ...Full Story Here

Ken Notes: I do love these projects...

Social Links


Air Wisconsin set to cut more than 500 jobs



   ...Full Story Here

Ken Notes: If anyone knows someone at Air Wis please let them know that La Crosse needs a regional carrier and serves a larger metro that numbers might suggest...

Social Links


Universities of Wisconsin announces business community support for increased funding request


Leaders and members from 19 business organizations across the state have signed their name in support of the Universities of Wisconsin’s request for increased state funding.

In August, the Universities of Wisconsin Board of Regents approved its request for an additional $855 million in state funding over two years. The Universities of Wisconsin announced the request’s support from the business community at a Wednesday press conference at the Milwaukee Athletic Club. Gov. Tony Evers plans to announce his proposed 2025-2027 biennial budget on Feb. 18.

“With that funding, we would be in a better position to innovate, develop talent and partner with businesses and communities,” Universities of Wisconsin president Jay Rothman said at the press conference. “Without it, access and affordability are threatened.”..


   ...Full Story Here

Social Links


Wisconsin: Investing In Statewide Growth


A U.S. Regional Tech Hub, the Badger State is capitalizing on its advantages for business of all sizes.


As 2024 came to a close, Eli Lilly and Company announced its plan to invest $3 billion to expand a Kenosha County, Wisconsin manufacturing facility it acquired from Nexus Pharmaceuticals Inc. earlier that year. Lilly expects to add 750 jobs to the location’s current 130-plus workforce. And the company plans to start construction on the expansion next year, creating an expected 2,000 construction jobs.

“Today’s announcement represents our single largest U.S. manufacturing investment outside our home state of Indiana and will add to our ability to expand capacity to make both our existing and future pipeline of medicines right here in the Midwest,” said Executive Vice President and President of Lilly Manufacturing Operations Edgardo Hernandez at the time. “We look forward to bringing high-wage, advanced manufacturing, engineering and science jobs to people in Wisconsin, a state that is becoming a critical geography in our global manufacturing operations.”

Governor Tony Evers welcomed Lilly’s investment ...   ...Full Story Here

Social Links


Madison buying South Park Street properties with plans to raze buildings, seek developer


The city of Madison has purchased several properties and is in the process of buying another on fast-changing South Park Street for a future redevelopment just south of Wingra Creek.

Madison acquired one of the properties, at 1810 S. Park St., in 2020, and the next year bought nearby properties at 814 and 826 North Ave. It later acquired properties that include All Metals Recycling, a scrap metal and salvage yard, at 1800–1804 S. Park St., where a fire destroyed a multi-tenant building in 2023. Now, the city is looking to buy the property that lies in the middle, at 1814 S. Park St...



   ...Full Story Here

Social Links


Electric Vehicle Charging Just Got Easier in Wisconsin! Travel without Worry


Wisconsin is stepping up its game in electric vehicle infrastructure. Thanks to the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) Formula Program, residents and visitors alike will find it much more convenient to charge their electric vehicles (EVs) while traveling throughout the state.

Fast-charging stations powered by federal funds became operational last December at several Kwik Trip locations in cities like Ashland, Menomonie, and Chippewa Falls. These developments were made possible by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law signed in November 2021, which allocated substantial resources for enhancing EV infrastructure nationwide...
   ...Full Story Here

Social Links


Mechanical Engineering Team Secures $2.3M ARPA-E Grant to Develop Advanced Electrolyzer


The United States electrical grid is fragmented, which means transferring excess power from one region to another is no easy feat.

The U.S. Department of Energy is searching for promising solutions to this challenge through its Advanced Research Projects Agency-Energy (ARPA-E), including ways of transferring power using chemicals.

With that in mind, ARPA-E selected a project led by University of Wisconsin-Madison Mechanical Engineering Associate Professor James Pikul for a three-year, $2.3 million grant as part of the agency’s Vision OPEN 2024 program....

   ...Full Story Here

Social Links


Shocking Setback: Wisconsin Risks Losing $55 Million for EV Chargers


  • The Trump administration has suspended a $5 billion plan to expand  EV chargers in the U.S.

  • Wisconsin risks losing over $55 million in federal funding due to this halt.

  • Governor Evers calls the decision shortsighted and reckless, stressing the need for an EV charging network.

  • The state recently launched its first federally funded EV charging stations, with more planned along highways.

  • Environmental advocates warn of potential legal action against the federal government over this setback.

  • Wisconsin’s lagging EV infrastructure puts it at risk of falling behind in adopting greener transportation options.
In a stunning turn of events, the Trump administration has halted a crucial $5 billion initiative designed to accelerate the deployment of electric vehicle (EV) chargers across the U.S., leaving Wisconsin in jeopardy of losing over $55 million in much-needed federal funds...   ...Full Story Here

Social Links


Gov. Evers, WisDOT Announce $150,000 Infrastructure Improvement Grant To Facilitate Economic Development and Job Creation in Bayfield County


Gov. Tony Evers, together with the Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) today announced a $150,000 Transportation Economic Assistance (TEA) grant to Bayfield County. The grant will support road construction to complete Arganbright Road and provide full access to the undeveloped Bayfield County Business Park. The road improvements will allow heavy equipment company Ritola Inc. to move into the business park, expand services and create at least 15 new jobs.

“Our communities and local businesses rely on good infrastructure to promote economic development,” Gov. Evers said. “I’m proud to continue investing in worthy projects through our TEA grant program like this one in Bayfield County. I’m excited to see the new business park grow and allow more northwest Wisconsin businesses to take advantage of the improvements we’re making.”

The newly constructed 2,100-foot section of Arganbright Road will connect State Farm Road to WIS 137 and provide additional improvements such as storm drainage and two access points to the business park...

   ...Full Story Here

Social Links


MadREP News


Stay up to date by reading our MadREP Report,a bi-monthly newsletter that features regional economic development news, events and opportunities.




See Also:

WEDC
NEWSROOM

   ...Full Story Here

Social Links


Eau Claire County Bucks State Population Trend


county is one of only a few expected to grow by 2050, new estimates show

Within a few decades, Wisconsin will start to shrink, the state Department of Administration says. Don’t blame Ozempic or some fad diet. The shrinking won’t happen to our waistlines: It will be our population that will begin to diminish, state demographers estimated in a report released in early January. The projections are based on the U.S. Census Bureau’s 2020 headcount and forecast populations across the state in 2030, 2040, and 2050.

Wisconsin’s population is expected to be somewhat stable during the current decade, but will begin to decrease slightly in the 2030s and 2040s. While the state had nearly 5.9 million people in the 2020 census, that figure is projected to decline to around 5.7 million by 2050...

   ...Full Story Here

Social Links


Small businesses across Wisconsin can receive free advice and training


Newly launched Main Street Bounceback Technical Assistance Program offers expert consulting and specialized training.

MADISON, WI. JAN. 16, 2025 – Small businesses throughout Wisconsin can now receive free advice and training thanks to a new partnership between the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation (WEDC) and the Universities of Wisconsin’s Office for Business and Entrepreneurship. 

The Main Street Bounceback Technical Assistance and Training Program will provide small businesses – with less than 500 employees — training ranging from formal business classes to one-on-one consultations with experts in fields such as marketing, financial planning, and human resources. 

“Strong communities are the key to a strong economy in Wisconsin, and small businesses are at the center of strong communities,” said Missy Hughes, secretary and CEO of WEDC, the state’s leading economic development organization. “The resources available through the Universities of Wisconsin’s Office for Business & Entrepreneurship, such as the Small Business Development Center (SBDC) Network of Wisconsin, are critical to the long-term success, viability, and resilience of our state’s small businesses.” 

The U.S. Small Business Administration estimates there are more than 480,000 small businesses in Wisconsin, accounting for more than 99 percent of all state businesses and employing nearly half of the state’s workforce...

   ...Full Story Here

Social Links


Education is the Next Civil Rights Frontier: Wisconsin Must Act Now


As an educator and advocate for educational equity, I’ve witnessed firsthand the stark reality of Wisconsin’s educational landscape. Our state maintains one of the largest achievement gaps between Black and white students in the nation – a crisis that demands immediate attention and action.

The recently released  National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) scores paint a troubling picture. Wisconsin’s Black students consistently perform below the national average, with reading proficiency rates that should alarm every citizen of our state. In Milwaukee, where the majority of our state’s Black students reside, these disparities are even more pronounced. This isn’t just an education issue – it’s a civil rights emergency....

   ...Full Story Here

Ken Notes: Of course if we work on creating a better educational system we stand to lose federal funding.

Social Links


5 Milwaukee Affordable Housing Projects Vying For State Funds


Five proposed Milwaukee affordable housing developments are vying for competitively awarded low-income housing tax credits to enable their construction.

The proposals, part of a group of 39 statewide, include a new building at Midtown Center, a redevelopment of a shuttered nursing home, new senior apartments in Bay View, a redevelopment of the building used for the Milwaukee County City Campus offices (and formerly Doctor’s Hospital) and the development of new housing around St. Matthew C.M.E. Church.

The Wisconsin Housing and Economic Development Authority will announce what projects are selected in May.

The credits are the most common tool used in Wisconsin to create federally-defined affordable housing. Receipt of the credits requires developers to set aside a pre-determined number of units at a discounted rate for households making less than a specified income (often 60% of the area median). Rental prices are set via a formula and targeted to match 30% of a household’s income...


   ...Full Story Here

Social Links


Downtown business group to unveil new resource guide for 160+ biz owners


STEVENS POINT — Downtown business owners and entrepreneurs in Stevens Point will have a new tool to navigate the local business landscape, thanks to a soon-to-be-launched Downtown Resource Guide.

The guide, spearheaded by Chloe Kreuser, executive director of the Downtown Stevens Point Business Improvement District (BID), compiles critical information for business owners, including district boundaries, development resources, funding opportunities, and promotional tools.

Kreuser said the initiative was driven by repeated questions from local businesses on where to seek support...

...The BID is working with the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation (WEDC) and Main Street America, a national network dedicated to supporting downtown districts. Kreuser said Stevens Point businesses can leverage geofencing data, which provides heat maps and traffic patterns to help identify areas needing activation and investment..


   ...Full Story Here

Social Links


Economic Development Resources









Twin Cities-Milwaukee-Chicago Intercity Passenger Rail Service



Wisconsin Housing and Economic Development Authority

nwrpc.com
momentumwest.org
7riversalliance.org
driftlessdevelopment.com
grownorth.org
prosperitysouthwest.com
centergy.net
madisonregion.org
thenewnorth.com
mke7.com



PropertyDrive.com

CirexNews.com

www.weda.org

DOA

Wisconsin Chamber of Commerce Directory
mrrpc


Wisconsin
Department
of Workforce
Development

   ...Full Story Here

Social Links


Over $2.7 Billion in USDA Funding Invested in Wisconsin Since 2021


U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development Wisconsin State Director Julie Lassa today, on her last day serving as a presidential appointee for the Biden-Harris Administration, announced the release of USDA Rural Development Wisconsin Accomplishments report. This report provides a comprehensive overview of Rural Development’s investments across all program areas in rural Wisconsin since 2021. 

“I’m proud of the more than $2.7 billion that Rural Development has invested in rural Wisconsin during this period,” said Lassa. “But beyond the numbers, these investments are about strengthening rural communities and improving the quality of life for the people who live there.”

Lassa continued, “I’m most proud of how this funding has helped to lower energy costs and increased job opportunities for farmers and rural businesses. We’ve helped improve the quality of drinking water and wastewater treatment and many of these investments helped improve access and the quality of healthcare and public safety services. In addition, we’ve increased access to affordable homeownership, repair and rental opportunities. The impact of this funding will create more energy independence, save money, and strengthen economic development for years to come in the communities of rural Wisconsin.”

To view a copy of the complete report, visit: https://www.rd.usda.gov/media/file/download/wi-2021-2024investments-final.pdf....   

   ...Full Story Here

Social Links


Orbis Corp to close Menasha facility, lay off 109 employees. Here is what we know so far


MENASHA — Orbis Corp., a major manufacturer of reusable packaging, is closing its Menasha facility after more than 50 years, and laying off 109 employees, according to a notice filed with the state of Wisconsin.

The company decided to close the facility at 1328 Earl St. in Menasha and move operations into its new plant in Greenville, Texas, as part of a consolidation, according to the letter the company sent to the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development, signed by Angie Olson, vice president of human resources.

The letter states that Orbis expects layoffs in phases beginning in March, until the entire plant closes...


   ...Full Story Here

Social Links


These five Wisconsin companies laid people off in January


Wisconsin employers cut about 700 jobs in January, compared with the same month in 2024 when nearly 1,900 workers were laid off.

In January, 711 people were either permanently or temporarily laid off from five companies according to the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development. The total number of laid off workers could be much higher because Kohl`s Corp. announced layoffs at its headquarters, but has not filed a official WARN notice.

More:Two Wisconsin companies laid off workers in December. State`s economy ends year on high note
A record number of jobs in Wisconsin

Wisconsin`s unemployment in December, the most recent data, was 3%, however 3,076,500 people were employed, continuing a trend of increasing employment in the state. For the last eight months, Wisconsin has set a new record for employment...


   ...Full Story Here

Social Links


Advocates Push to Increase Funding For UW System


State ranks 43rd in funding, jeopardizing state`s workforce and economy, civic leaders say.

Civic leaders from across the state gathered in downtown Milwaukee on Wednesday to advocate for increased funding for the Universities of Wisconsin (UWs), raising concerns about the state’s 43rd-place ranking in per-pupil funding among public four-year universities.

During a press conference and panel discussion at the Milwaukee Athletic Club, advocates including Milwaukee Mayor Cavalier Johnson and University of Wisconsin System President Jay Rothman highlighted “critical issues” including workforce development, population growth and talent retention, which they said depend on increased funding...



   ...Full Story Here

Social Links


DATCP Announces Appointment of Julie Lassa as Administrator


MADISON, Wis. – Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) Secretary Randy Romanski announced Julie Lassa as Administrator of the Division of Agricultural Development.

“Julie has decades of experience with the agriculture industry, stakeholder relationships, and leadership,” said Romanski. “DATCP aims to be a resource to the industry and citizens of the state, and I know that Julie’s background and strengths will support her work as she joins the team.”..

   ...Full Story Here

Social Links


Wisconsin Cheese Makers Association (WCMA) Launches Exciting New Marketing Opportunities


Dairy manufacturers, processors, and suppliers to the industry now have more options than ever to promote their businesses.

Wisconsin Cheese Makers Association (WCMA) is introducing sponsorship opportunities for educational trainings, member committees & groups, and monthly webinars. Complete details including pricing, benefits, and purchasing information, are available now at WisCheeseMakers.org/Marketing.

“These new sponsorships offer much more than brand visibility – they’re a chance to connect with over 700 WCMA member businesses and their employees, and to invest in education and connection in the dairy processing industry,” said Rebekah Sweeney WCMA’s Senior Director of Programs & Policy. “We’re excited to launch these offerings and create new avenues for the dairy processing industry to grow.” ...


   ...Full Story Here

Social Links


2 GOP state lawmakers pushing to advance nuclear energy in Wisconsin


State Rep. Steffen: Wisconsin can leverage UW, private sector to be a hub for nuclear energy

Two Republicans who chair state legislative committees on energy and utilities say they want to bring more nuclear power online in Wisconsin in the coming years.

To start that effort, they introduced a resolution calling on the Legislature to publicly support nuclear power and fusion energy.

“The resolution, more than anything, makes a formal declaration that Wisconsin is open for business — it is open for nuclear,” said Rep. David Steffen, R-Howard, who chairs the Assembly Energy and Utilities Committee...


   ...Full Story Here

Social Links


Subscribe to you Local paper!



   ...Full Story Here

Ken Notes: WDNews relies on the actual journalism provided by your local media outlets. Without these partners we can not bring you the unbiased news, leads and updates you need to thrive in Wisconsin. Support your local media...

Social Links


Land and Space / Tom Daykin


Note: I changed the link here to Toms Twitter account. JS limits the number of articles I can read so I look at TD`s Twitter feed every week. I`ll Still include JS articles but after ten you need to subscribe.

I also updated the picture because, well Tom is getting old and development is taking it`s toll!!!

Milwaukee - 1/1/2020 Journal Sentinel business reporter Tom Daykin talks about commercial real estate and development, including stores, hotels, offices, condos, apartments and industrial buildings...

Land & Space Development Database


   ...Full Story Here

Ken Notes: Tom Daykin is the source for ED news in MKE. This is a permanent link to articles in his blog which is updated daily...

Social Links


The Wisconsin Development Network


Our Current Publications:


 

On Hiatus

WWHNews


Cirex News


WisCraftNews.com

FOR SALE!

    
Ken Harwood
Advocating for Wisconsin
HarwoodKen@Gmail.com
608.334.2174
   ...Full Story Here

Social Links


WDN Notes...


WisconsinDevelopment.com
WDNGreen.com
WWHNews.com


Wisconsin Development, WDNGreen, WWHNews newsletters are now emailed to over 12,000 professionals, planners, developers, news outlets, and elected officials each week. We see over 1,000 opens within the first hour every week for each publication. The websites, WisconsinDevelopment.com and WDNGreen.com are always online and available to view and search where we maintain several years worth of articles.

"My goal is to present a positive view of economic development, business and employment in the State of Wisconsin”, Ken Harwood, Editor and Publisher.

Each week WisconsinDevelopment presents a positive look at economic development, commercial projects and ideas that work from across the state. In WDNGreen we highlight pro-environmental development and issues that make economic sense.

We believe in the Wisconsin business community and believe that telling their stories will positively impact both growth and better legislation in the State. We are nonpartisan, pro business, pro positive environmental issues, and most importantly pro WISCONSIN...

Online at WisconsinDevelopment.com  & WDNGreen.com Featuring Storues & Links you can use everyday to help your bisiness and Wisconsin grow! Edited and published by Ken Harwood @ LinkedIn. 


   ...Full Story Here

Ken Notes: "Ken Notes" may be reprinted in context without permission. Attribution should be Ken Harwood, Editor Wisconsin Development News or Ken Harwood Advocate for Wisconsin.

Social Links


Contact WisconsinDevelopment


Wisconsin Development News is
Edited and Published by:

Ken Harwood
Ken [at] KenHarwood.com
608.334.2174


Mailing Address:

WisconsinDevelopment.com
1221 Hagar St UNIT 209
La Crosse  WI  54603

Please feel free to send story ideas or Press Releases to:

Ken [at] KenHarwood.com
Call 608.334.2174 to confirm receipt.

   ...Full Story Here

Social Links


Start Week: 3 - Query String:SELECT * FROM wdn2 WHERE `issue` > 3 and volume = 25 OR `issue` > 90 ORDER BY sortorder