At the Chippewa Economic Development Corporation (CEDC), we’re proud to call the Chippewa Valley home. It’s a place where small-town spirit meets big possibilities—a region known not just for its economic vitality, but for its people, sense of community, and quality of life. Whether you’re dreaming of launching a business, growing your career, spending time in nature, or raising a family in a safe, welcoming place—there’s something here for everyone.
Our work wouldn’t be possible without the incredible support of more than 100 private-sector partners, Chippewa County, and our local villages and cities. Their belief in our region allows us to champion local businesses, foster meaningful connections, and build a bright, sustainable future for everyone who lives and works here.
From all of us at CEDC—our Board of Directors and dedicated staff—thank you! Your continued support means the world to us. It’s what drives our mission forward and helps shape the future of the Chippewa Valley. I’m especially grateful to the passionate leaders who volunteer their time on our board. Their commitment and care are what make our work truly impactful.
Here’s to the year ahead—filled with progress, partnership, and possibility.
With gratitude,
Maureen Carlson CEDC Chair
Financial Report
SHAPING OUR FUTURE WITH RENEWED FOCUS
Every thriving organization is built on a strong financial foundation. I’m pleased to share that CEDC remains financially healthy, with stable resources that continue to support our mission of growth, innovation, and opportunity.
Thanks to Clifton Larson Allen, who handles our annual financial review and tax filings, we remain committed to accountability and transparency. The continued backing from our investors, partners, and stakeholders in economic development has helped us maintain healthy cash reserves
Our theme for this year, “Shaping Tomorrow’s Economy – Communities Are the Core,” speaks to our belief that real, lasting economic impact begins at the local level. By investing in CEDC, you are laying the groundwork for a brighter economic future – Thank you for your financial support! Let’s continue to move forward together and unlock even greater potential in 2024–2025.
Melissa Peterson Treasurer
Vision
Driven by a spirit of innovation, collaboration, and community engagement, Chippewa County, Wisconsin thrives as a forwardthinking and ever-evolving region. With a focus on sustainable progress and pioneering ideas, we aim to lead Wisconsin and the Upper Midwest as a hub of diverse opportunities and economic vitality. Our vision is to attract cutting-edge businesses, visionary entrepreneurs, and skilled talent who value a balanced, hometown lifestyle and a prosperous future.
Mission
The mission of the Chippewa Economic Development Corporation is to ignite and sustain economic growth in the Chippewa Valley by cultivating a vibrant business environment. Through partnerships, strategic initiatives, and a focus on fostering innovation, we aim to support businesses, empower talent, and drive new investments. Our ultimate goal is to enhance the economic foundation of Chippewa County while elevating the quality of life for its residents.
BUSINESS EXPANSION AND RETENTION (B.E.A.R.)
CEDC’s Business Expansion and Retention (B.E.A.R.) Program, launched in 2007, is dedicated to supporting local businesses and strengthening the Chippewa Valley economy. Utilizing strategies such as business visits, showcases, BEAR Lunch & Learns, BEAR Discussions, and the BEAR Discussions Podcast, CEDC gathers valuable insights to develop targeted programs, advocate for key issues, and foster meaningful connections. By transforming local business needs into actionable solutions, the BEAR Program ensures companies have the tools, resources, and support to grow and thrive in our region.
11 Lunch & Learns
Designed for small groups of up to 12 participants, the BEAR Lunch & Learn series continues to provide targeted, highvalue learning opportunities to our local businesses.
In the past year alone, CEDC hosted eleven BEAR Lunch & Learns, each addressing timely topics such as business financing, cyber-security, workforce development, and AI.
Following each Lunch & Learn, CEDC offers one on one coaching to help apply techniques to address unique small business challenges. These sessions often lead to deeper collaboration, new partnerships, and tailored support from CEDC and its network of partners.
2 Showcases Presented
Our Collaborative Entrepreneur Showcase is another key B.E.A.R. initiative dedicated to strengthening Chippewa County’s economy. These events provide a platform for innovators to share their stories, highlight their businesses, and explore collaboration opportunities. Showcases build a stronger ecosystem by fostering connections, encouraging business involvement with the community.
Last year’s showcases, highlighted KYMA and Valley Sports Academy(VSA). Kyma is a startup developing scalable battery storage solutions. VSA in Lake Hallie is a large state of-the-art sports facility. Each business highlighted their value propositions and gave testimony to why Chippewa county is the best place to do business.
7
Revolving Loan Funds
The CEDC Revolving Loan Fund (RLF) Committee is made of seven CEDC Board Members who work to ensure that Chippewa County Revolving Loan Fund and the Regional Business Fund Inc. Programs are efficiently marketed. RBF, Inc. offers low-interest loan funds to businesses that expand within the region. Chippewa County’s RLF program consists of locally controlled capital used to provide “gap” financing for new or expanding businesses looking to create or retain jobs. The committee provides input into the lending strategies, helps with application review, and approval recommendations.
In 2024/25-the CEDC Revolving Loan Committee recommended 7 revolving loan fund applications for approval for over $440,000
26 Podcasts
The BEAR Discussions Podcast offers an inside look at the entrepreneurial spirit and business landscape of the Chippewa Valley. Hosted by President/ CEO Charlie Walker, often alongside other co-hosts like Lisa Bruhn and Ken Pearson, the podcast highlights local business owners, innovators, and community leaders through engaging storytelling and practical insights.
Over the past year, the BEAR Discussions Podcast released 26 episodes, amplifying the voices shaping the Chippewa Valley’s economy. With a monthly increase of over 1,200 listens, the podcast significantly expanded its reach—now available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and other major platforms. Each episode celebrates local success and delivers practical insights for entrepreneurs, business leaders, and community stakeholders—underscoring CEDC’s ongoing commitment to business retention, expansion, and regional economic prosperity.
2K New Subscribers in 24/25
EXPANDING
WATER’S EDGE CHEESE CURDS
Helping local businesses expand is a key part of our mission. In 2024/25, the organization worked with Chippewa County and the City of Chippewa Falls to assist Water’s Edge Cheese Curds take advantage of Lake Wissota Business Park as a site for their next step forward in their growth journey. Lake Wissota Business Park—designated as a Certified Shovel Ready site— allows for rapid construction. In December the company broke ground on their new 12,000-square-foot facility. This new location will enable them to grow significantly—enhancing production capacity, boosting operational efficiency, and allowing them to meet growing customer demand. The collaboration between CEDC, Chippewa County, the City of Chippewa Falls, and Water’s Edge Cheese Curds highlights the collective commitment to fostering economic vitality and opening the door to new opportunities across the Chippewa Valley.
RETAINING
HEALTHCARE & THE BIG IDEA
In early 2024, the sudden closure of HSHS St. Joseph’s Hospital in Chippewa Falls left a significant gap in the region’s healthcare system—and sparked a wave of conversations about what comes next. When Hospital Sisters Health System (HSHS) abruptly closed St. Joseph’s Hospital, the news sent shockwaves through Western Wisconsin. In response, the Chippewa County Economic Development Corporation (CEDC) immediately mobilized— convening with Aspirus Health, OakLeaf Clinics, Mayo Clinic, Marshfield Clinic, and a dedicated group of citizens who would go on to form the Chippewa Valley Health Cooperative. CEDC played a key role in supporting due diligence efforts, staying informed on operational strategies, and fostering community partnerships to help expand healthcare services and address the critical gaps left in the wake of the HSHS closure.
One such response born from this urgency was
The Big Idea, a bold CEDC initiative created to bring together holistic, integrative, and alternative healthcare practitioners and entrepreneurs to explore how to fill the gaps created by the closure. Leaders from across a wide spectrum of integrative health professions stepped forward: chiropractors, naturopathic physicians, licensed acupuncturists, holistic nurses, and others began to plan a symposium to transform the way we think about health and healing by treating the patient as a whole person, not just a set of symptoms.
Over the past year, CEDC has hosted more than a dozen meetings and working sessions, fostering this dialogue among practitioners, entrepreneurs, and health leaders. These gatherings have explored how complementary therapies can work in harmony with conventional models to improve patient outcomes and enhance well-being. The effort reflects a growing recognition that whole health—the integration of physical, emotional, social, and spiritual well-being—is essential not just for individuals, but for the health of our communities and economy.
The Big Idea’s upcoming Bridge, Innovate, Empower Healthcare Symposium, scheduled for October 22, 2025, at the Chippewa Valley Technical College – Chippewa Falls Campus will bring together forwardthinking providers and entrepreneurs to share their insights. The symposium is more than a meeting—it’s a movement. It’s about reimagining healthcare to be more preventative, personalized, and rooted in collaboration rather than competition.
CEDC’s The Big Idea initiative supports more than healthcare—it supports community transformation. By creating space for innovation, fostering connection across disciplines, and empowering providers to think differently, we’re strengthening both our local economy and our collective well-being. Because when we invest in whole health, we invest in a healthier, more resilient Chippewa Valley.
BUSINESS ATTRACTION & RECRUITMENT (BAR)
The Business Attraction and Recruitment (BAR) program is a key component of Chippewa County’s strategy to drive economic growth. This initiative highlights why the Chippewa Valley is an ideal place not just to build a business—but to build a life and raise a family. From marketing development-ready sites to guiding site selectors and decision-makers through the tools, programs, and advantages available, CEDC helps businesses clearly envision long-term success in Chippewa County.
Attracting new businesses fuels job creation, strengthens the local tax base, and drives new capital investment. By focusing on companies that align with our regional assets and community values, we help diversify the economy, enhance resilience, and support innovation.
As the only full-time, professionally staffed economic development organization in the county, CEDC responded to 62 inquiries from businesses and site selectors at various stages of interest— each representing potential sustainable investment in our local economy.
We also hosted and organized 5 professional site visits, showcasing Chippewa County’s strengths to companies actively exploring expansion or relocation opportunities.
A vital tool in our business attraction efforts is the Request for Information (RFI). Typically submitted by site selectors or companies evaluating potential locations, RFI’s are used to assess a community’s willingness and readiness to support new development. In the past year alone, CEDC responded to over 41 RFI’s, each representing a unique opportunity to bring investment, jobs, and growth to Chippewa County.
To deliver compelling, datadriven responses, CEDC works closely with local partners—including utilities, workforce agencies, and municipal leaders—to provide detailed information on site availability, infrastructure capacity, transportation access, workforce demographics and training, and available incentive programs.
Our ability to respond quickly, accurately, and strategically positions Chippewa County as a strong, reliable contender for competitive projects. More than just data, we deliver a clear message:
CEDC is ready to support your business from day one.
THE BDO ZONE
A standout achievement this past year under the BAR program was the successful establishment of a Bioeconomy Development Opportunity Zone (BDO) Zone in Chippewa County. This tool is an internationally recognized, standards-based assessment of our region’s feedstock, supply chain, and infrastructure risks for biobased development. The ‘A’ rating for corn stover that we received helps better positions us and demonstrate readiness for biofuel, biogas, renewable chemical, or bioproduct manufacturing. By promoting this clear evaluation of our biomass availability and infrastructure in Chippewa County, our ability to attract clean energy infrastructure and recruit firms that make renewable chemicals, advanced biofuels, biogas, etc. is made easier.
Momentum from the BDO Zone effort brought notable visibility to the region via a featured article in Business in Focus Magazine and CEDC participation on an international BDO Zone webinar, where the Chippewa County BDO Zone was showcased to global stakeholders. The results of CEDC marketing and promotion of Chippewa County’s BDO Zone drew national and international attention, directly contributing to an increase in inquiries and RFI submissions from businesses exploring new market opportunities.
ADVOCACY
CONNECTING COMMUNITY, BUSINESS, AND POLICY
At CEDC advocacy isn’t just a buzzword—it’s another tool in our approach to building a stronger Chippewa Valley. By connecting local businesses, educational institutions, and policymakers, CEDC champions initiatives that create real, lasting impact for our region. Whether it’s guiding high school students toward meaningful career paths, supporting the next wave of entrepreneurs, or ensuring our community’s voice is heard at the Capitol, CEDC continues to serve as a powerful force for economic advancement.
A testament to our impact, CEDC was nominated by the Chippewa Falls Area Unified School District for the 2024
Wisconsin Association of School Boards (WASB) Business Honor Roll. This statewide recognition highlights CEDC’s commitment to workforce development and talent retention. Through programs like internships, apprenticeships, job shadowing, and career fairs, we help students connect with local industries and career opportunities—ultimately strengthening the talent pipeline that drives business growth in the region. Our efforts extend into the classroom and beyond, including initiatives like STEAM Night, guest speakers, and mentoring opportunities that introduce students to high-demand fields and realworld experiences.
This focus on talent development goes hand-in-hand with CEDC’s broader advocacy efforts, including a continued push to elevate the region’s entrepreneurial ecosystem. In December 2024, CEDC was honored by the Mid-America Economic
Development Council (MAEDC) during its annual Economic Development Awards, receiving recognition in the Entrepreneurial Program category for our HATCH Idea Pitch Competition. This award celebrates innovative programs that cultivate entrepreneurial culture and support emerging businesses. HATCH brought together community partners, innovators, and investors, offering a platform for bold ideas to flourish and strengthen the spirit of entrepreneurship throughout the Chippewa Valley. CEDC was proud to accept the award alongside representatives from the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation and Dairyland Power, reinforcing our region’s commitment to innovation and collaboration.
An example of our advocacy in action was the 3rd Annual Legislative Speed Dating event. This one-of-a-kind gathering brought together more than 40 local business and community leaders with members of the Wisconsin State Legislature, including Senators and Representatives from across the state. Structured around short, rotating conversations, the event enabled attendees to speak directly with lawmakers about regional priorities such as healthcare, energy
infrastructure, TIF modernization, and public safety concerns like those surrounding the Stanley Correctional Institution. These faceto-face conversations allowed legislators to hear firsthand how their decisions impact local communities and economies. As CEDC President/CEO Charlie Walker stated, “This event is about connection and collaboration. It brings our community closer to the decision-makers in Madison and reminds us all that good policy begins with real conversation.”
CEDC’s advocacy efforts are rooted in a deep belief that sustainable economic growth begins with strong partnerships. Whether it’s aligning education with employer needs, empowering entrepreneurs, or fostering legislative relationships, CEDC plays an essential role in shaping a resilient and future-ready Chippewa Valley. Through recognition, results, and relentless collaboration, we are proud to lead the charge in ensuring that the voices, values, and vision of our region are not only heard— but acted upon.
HATCH 2024
FUELING INNOVATION, CONNECTIONS, AND LOCAL GROWTH
One of the highlights of 2024 for the Chippewa Economic Development Corporation (CEDC) was the continued success of HATCH: A Business Pitch Event—an annual celebration of entrepreneurship held during Wisconsin Startup Week. Hosted at River Bend Winery & Distillery, this year’s event once again served as a vibrant platform to spotlight the ingenuity and ambition of local entrepreneurs.
HATCH is more than just a pitch competition. It’s a launchpad for bold ideas, where business founders present their visions to a panel of expert judges, gain visibility, and connect with key players in the regional business ecosystem. Designed to encourage creativity, job growth, and startup development, the event has become a signature initiative in driving the Chippewa Valley’s economic future forward.
To elevate the experience and strengthen local connections, CEDC hosted an exclusive pre-event investor reception. This gathering brought together more than 75 attendees, including entrepreneurs, investors, and business leaders, to spark new relationships and encourage collaboration. The event continues to serve as a key opportunity for mentorship, investment dialogue, and regional networking.
This year’s HATCH also featured a celebration of the Chippewa Valley’s growing food truck scene. The CEDC Food Truck Show ‘n Shine added a flavorful
twist, spotlighting the creative culinary entrepreneurs making waves across the region. The business-friendly nature of mobile food ventures—thanks to their adaptability and low barrier to entry—was on full display. Congratulations to Happy Trails Pizza Company, named CEDC Food Truck of the Year, with Charlie’s Long Smoked BBQ and Nichols Nibbles earning well-deserved recognition as crowd favorites.
This year’s pitch competition drew impressive entries from across the region. Two standout winners included:
• Grand Prize Winner: Christina Funk of MetabolicCareNP, awarded $5,000 and a feature on the BEAR Discussion Podcast.
• Audience Choice Award: Good Energy LLC, recognized with two tickets to the Entrepreneurs’ Rally XIII and $500 in print services courtesy of Badgerland Printing.
As described by Judge Patrick Donohue, CEO of Hill Capital Corp, the event captured “the passion and innovation that can spark significant impact within our local business community.”
Through initiatives like HATCH, CEDC continues to cultivate a thriving environment where entrepreneurship is celebrated and supported. From business pitches to food trucks, 2024 reaffirmed that the Chippewa Valley is hungry for opportunity—and CEDC is proud to help turn that appetite into action.
ROB MOONEY HONORED LEADERSHIP
AWARD FOR FARM TECHNOLOGY DAYS 2024
CEDC proudly recognizes board member Rob Mooney for receiving a Leadership Award for his exceptional leadership as Chair of the Local Executive Committee for Wisconsin Farm Technology Days 2024. Rob, Production and Technical Sales Manager at Alliance Plastics Corp., played a pivotal role in bringing one of the nation’s largest agricultural expositions back to Chippewa County for the first time in 20 years.
Under Rob’s guidance, and with the dedicated support of fellow CEDC board members Nic Alberson, Ryan Hartzell, Cathy Leibke, Ken Pearson, and former Chair Lisa Bruhn, the event drew over 40,000 attendees and featured more than 500 exhibitors. This milestone 70th anniversary show generated an economic impact exceeding $1 million for the region and raised over $145,000 to support local agricultural initiatives.
Rob’s strategic insight, collaborative spirit, and tireless commitment were key factors in the event’s success, strengthening the Chippewa Valley’s agricultural community and enhancing its economic vitality. The CEDC and the broader community extend heartfelt thanks to Rob for his leadership and dedication to making Farm Technology Days 2024 a historic achievement.
About Us
The Chippewa Economic Development Corporation (CEDC) is the driving force behind economic progress in Chippewa County, Wisconsin. As the only full-time professional organization in the area solely focused on economic development, CEDC plays a central role in attracting new businesses, supporting existing companies, and helping entrepreneurs succeed.
CEDC’s work is rooted in strong partnerships with local governments, educational institutions, and over 100 private-sector investors. Together, they’re creating a business-friendly environment that promotes innovation, job creation, and long-term economic vitality—while also improving the overall quality of life for area residents.
Among its key initiatives, CEDC offers site selection services, business plan assistance, and its Business Expansion and Retention (BEAR) program, which helps local companies grow and thrive. The organization also supports innovation and entrepreneurship through events like the HATCH Business Pitch Competition, which gives aspiring business owners a platform to share their ideas and access valuable resources.
At its core, CEDC’s mission is to fuel sustainable growth across the Chippewa Valley by connecting people, ideas, and opportunities.
