HARVESTING SUCCESS
AS THANKSGIVING approaches, our team CEDC is filled with gratitude for the people who make our work possible. This season reminds us that growth, innovation, and entrepreneurship thrive best in communities built on shared purpose and mutual support.
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.
We are deeply thankful for our dedicated board of directors, the hardworking CEDC staff, our generous investors, and the broader Chippewa Valley community that continues to rally behind our mission. Together, you help foster a vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem where founders take risks, make sacrifices, and bring new ideas to life. Your trust and partnership allow us to champion those visionaries who create jobs, strengthen industries, and shape the future of our region.
From all of us at CEDC, thank you for being a vital part of this journey. Together, we build a stronger, more innovative region where opportunity and gratitude grow side by side.
HATCH 2025
IGNITING VETERAN AND ENTREPRENEURIAL SUPPORT
On Veterans Day 2025 Eastbay Lodge in Holcombe, Wisconsin was filled with an unmistakable buzz of energy and innovation . Entrepreneurs from across the state gathered for an invite only “Failing Forward” reception prior to our annual HATCH- a dynamic pitch competition that turns bold ideas into thriving ventures During the invite-only VIP “Failing Forward” connecting reception startups, second-stage founders, seasoned investors, business bankers, and supporters for facilitated introductions and investor/mentor-led conversation roundtables centered on candid lessons learned and practical takeaways from adjusting to temporary disappointments and setbacks . All underscored HATCH’s emphasis on real-world insight, relationship building, and a stronger statewide founder-to-investor network .
The Hatch event was coordinated as a part of Wisconsin Startup Week and Chippewa Valley Startup Week . Over 100 CEDC stakeholders, collaborators, and partners attended this one-of-a-kind “Shark Tank”–styled pitch event to watch, support, and vote for their favorite of nine five-minute pitches vying for a $5000 cash prize Gesūnd Health Data — Founder: Scott Coller was chosen by the judges as the best pitch and won the cash-while BeThere — Founders: Matt Folden & Evan Finley received the audience favorite vote and a prize basket of Chippewa Valley local products donated by Alliance Plastics Corporation .
HATCH celebrated creativity, collaboration, and the spirit of entrepreneurship—while at the same time honoring veteran founders whose leadership and service continue to inspire our
economic development program . What really sets the CEDC HATCH Pitch apart from other like events is its deep collaboration with Wisconsin’s entrepreneurial ecosystem partners Over 20 business support organizations across the state contributed to this year’s applicant concepts, demonstrating a shared commitment to accelerating new ventures and strengthening the state’s founder pipeline
In addition- this year’s Hatch was held on Veterans Day purposely to highlight the Veterans that are now beginning their entrepreneurial journey The HATCH ’25 pitch partnered with local veteran-owned Marc On Shooting and the Wisconsin Veterans Chamber of Commerce on working to elevate veteran entrepreneurs
During the event CEDC proudly took the opportunity to honor the courage, leadership, and resilience of those who have served our country . Veterans embody the same qualities that define great entrepreneurs—grit, adaptability, and a commitment to something greater than themselves That spirit wove through the
evening as we celebrated not just innovation in business, but the remarkable contributions of veteran entrepreneurs shaping their communities beyond service .
From cutting-edge technology to community-driven solutions, HATCH 2025 proved that big ideas can be pitched and found anywhere— even right here in Chippewa .
NOVEMBER 11, 2025
STRENGTHENING MANUFACTURING
In celebration of Manufacturing Month this past October, the CEDC Board of Directors proudly hosted another Collaborative Showcase—this time at Ashley Furniture Industries in Chippewa Falls. Manufacturing Month is an important annual observance for CEDC, as it highlights the vital role manufacturers play in driving regional prosperity, supporting thousands of local jobs, and fueling long-term economic growth. Each year, CEDC uses this month to elevate industry partners, showcase innovation, and recognize the businesses that power the Chippewa Valley’s economic strength.
Held at Ashley Furniture’s state-of-the-art facility, this showcase spotlighted one of the region’s premier manufacturing facilities and a longtime leader in Western Wisconsin’s industrial sector. With thousands of supplier partnerships, a commitment to job creation, and a deep investment in community and workforce development, Ashley Furniture continues to make a profound economic impact—helping ensure the Chippewa Valley remains a competitive hub for industry and innovation.
Attendees received a behind-the-scenes look at advanced manufacturing in action. From robotics and automation to sustainable production practices, the event demonstrated how local industry is evolving to meet global standards while staying rooted in community values. More than just a tour, the showcase served as a dynamic platform for cross-sector collaboration, bringing together business leaders, educators, and workforce organizations to exchange ideas and strengthen partnerships.
Finally, the group also heard an update from the Wisconsin Economic Development Association (WEDA), with Melissa Hunt and Mike Welsh sharing valuable insights into statewide initiatives and resources that advance economic growth across Wisconsin. Their presentation reinforced the strong partnership between CEDC and WEDA, as both organizations work collaboratively to support regional development, strengthen the manufacturing sector, and champion policies that foster business success.
Above all, the event reinforced a shared commitment to economic vitality and innovation, highlighting the power of community connection in driving Chippewa County’s continued growth.
DRIVING DEFENSE CONTRACTS
FUELING CHIPPEWA’S ECONOMY THROUGH DEFENSE MANUFACTURING
CEDC continued to celebrate Manufacturing Month by spotlighting innovation and collaboration within Wisconsin’s defense manufacturing sector through two major events the Defense Manufacturing Supply Chain Conference (DMSCC) and a Collaborative Showcase at W S Darley & Co Held at Chippewa Valley Technical College (CVTC), the sold-out DMSCC brought together more than 60 manufacturers, educators, and defense industry leaders to explore opportunities within the U .S . Department of Defense supply chain, address cybersecurity and compliance challenges, and strengthen regional supply networks . The conference, hosted in partnership with CVTC, the Wisconsin Procurement Institute (WPI), and NDIA Great Lakes, provided
valuable insight into how Wisconsin manufacturers can expand into high-value defense markets through innovation and certification readiness . CEDC’s efforts are part of a broader strategy to position the Chippewa area as a hub for innovation and advanced manufacturing By helping firms access federal contracts, we’re not only boosting individual business growth but also reinforcing Chippewa Valley’s reputation as a reliable partner in national defense supply chains . Following the conference, attendees toured W S Darley & Co in Chippewa Falls a global leader in defense and emergency services manufacturing, where they connected with engineers, explored cutting-edge technologies, and networked with peers .
CATCH UP
On past episodes!
Listen to Episode 518 “Beyond the Policy: Protecting and Growing Your Business” with Tyler Sperry
Charlie Walker explores how insurance can safeguard your business. Don’t miss insights that every entrepreneur needs! WHERE CAN I LISTEN?
The CEDC’s BEAR Discussions Podcast offers an inside look at the people and ideas driving economic growth in the Chippewa Valley. Hosted by Charlie Walker, each episode features engaging conversations with business owners, entrepreneurs, manufacturers, and community leaders. Through candid storytelling, the podcast explores the real-world challenges and successes of doing business in our region—from launching startups and leading teams to building partnerships and fostering innovation. It’s a source of insight and inspiration for anyone invested in the future of Chippewa County’s economy.
Designed for business owners, aspiring entrepreneurs, and anyone passionate about economic development, the BEAR Discussions Podcast delivers practical insights and authentic stories that foster meaningful connections across the Chippewa Valley. With new episodes released biweekly on major streaming platforms like Apple Podcasts and Spotify, it’s a valuable resource for those looking to learn from local leaders, stay informed on regional business trends, and be inspired by the voices shaping our community’s economic future.
Tune in and hear how Chippewa County is growing—one conversation at a time. Through the voices of local innovators and leaders, the BEAR Discussions Podcast captures the momentum, collaboration, and entrepreneurial spirit that continue to shape the region’s economic future.
ACCESS TO MENTAL HEALTH IN THE CHIPPEWA VALLEY
ROGERS BEHAVIORAL HEALTH EXPANSION
Since April 2025, CEDC has worked closely with Rogers Behavioral Health to support site selection, foster local connections, and guide community integration efforts. This collaboration reflects CEDC’s commitment to enhancing quality of life and building a resilient, thriving Chippewa Valley.
In October, the Chippewa Economic Development Corporation (CEDC) proudly helped organize and host an Open House for Rogers Behavioral Health at Chippewa Valley Technical College in Chippewa Falls. This milestone event was designed to introduce the community to Rogers’ leadership team, prepare for the City of Chippewa falls Planning and Zoning Committee, and provided a platform to learn more about their upcoming expansion project—an initiative poised to transform mental health care access in the region.
The Open House was a success where over 100 community members, stakeholders, and partners engaged in shaping a healthier future for our community. Access to behavioral health services in the Chippewa Valley has long been challenged by provider shortages and long wait times.
Rogers Behavioral Health’s expansion directly addresses these issues, offering a full continuum of care—including crisis stabilization, residential treatment, partial hospitalization, and intensive outpatient programs—right here at home. CEDC’s advocacy and strategic support have been instrumental in bringing this project to life. By helping secure funding, facilitating partnerships, and promoting community engagement, the project cleared a major hurdle. The city’s Plan Commission recently approved a conditional use permit for the facility.
It will be located at the intersection of Highway 178 and Beach Drive in Chippewa Falls.
VISIT TO STRENGTHEN GLOBAL TIES
POLISH MAYORS SHARE ECONOMIC
DEVELOPMENT INSIGHTS
Early this month, Chippewa County welcomed a distinguished delegation of mayors from Poland—an exchange rooted not just in diplomacy, but in shared opportunity As global connections become increasingly more vital to our tourism and capital investment objectives- hosting international leaders is more than a gesture of goodwill—it’s a strategic investment in our future
CEDC assisted the Chippewa Falls Rotary Club as part of the U S Congressional Open World Program—a cultural and professional exchange designed to foster international collaboration and understanding- in planning an itinerary for the Polish Mayors that highlighted shared values of community, rural leadership, and economic development between Wisconsin and Poland Included were stops in Lake Hallie, Bloomer, Stanley, Chippewa Falls, and Eau Claire, where they explored topics ranging from smalltown governance, economic development recruitment, fostering an entrepreneurial ecosystem, infrastructure planning, agricultural innovation, tourism, and community engagement
Through meetings with local leaders and tours of regional businesses, the Polish delegation gained insights into how we foster growth through public-private partnerships, strategic planning, and community-driven initiatives To kick off the week, CEDC showcased the county’s approach to sustainable development, highlighting tools like site selection assistance, financial incentives, and support for existing small businesses .
CEDC played a key role in coordinating this visit—facilitating site tours, business roundtables, and community engagement because we understand that by engaging with Polish municipal leaders, we open doors to trade, tourism, and cultural exchange These relationships can lead to joint ventures, export opportunities for local manufacturers, and shared best practices in infrastructure, sustainability, and rural development . Taking the visit and those conversations beyond ceremonial and to more actionable collaboration was the goal and reflects our broader mission: to build bridges between people, ideas, and opportunities
INVESTING IN PEOPLE
CEDC HOSTS UW-STOUT MOC TWI COURSE
CEDC proudly partnered with the UW-Stout Manufacturing Outreach Center (MOC) to host the renowned Training Within Industry (TWI) Job Relations course . Held in Chippewa Falls in October 2025, the event brought together professionals from across the Chippewa Valley for a hands-on leadership development experience aimed at enhancing workforce performance and workplace culture . The course was part of UW-Stout MOC’s “Manufacturing Competitiveness in the 21st Century” series, which also includes sessions on AI-driven vision inspection and process improvement strategies .
The TWI Job Relations course—originally developed during World War II and later adopted by global manufacturing leaders like Toyota—focuses on the foundational skills of effective supervision . Participants engaged in practical exercises designed to help leaders “get results through people” by treating individuals fairly, addressing issues promptly, and fostering a respectful workplace culture . They learned techniques for improving communication, resolving conflicts, building trust, and creating high-performing environments where employees feel valued and engaged
CEDC’s collaboration with UW-Stout MOC reflects a shared commitment to developing local talent and supporting the manufacturers who drive Chippewa County’s economy . By offering training programs like TWI, CEDC helps equip leaders with the tools they need to navigate today’s workforce challenges and build resilient, people-centered organizations .
CEDC proudly recognizes all participants who successfully completed the TWI Job Relations course and earned their certificates Your commitment to leadership excellence and continuous improvement enhances your organizations and contributes to the strength and vitality of the entire Chippewa Valley manufacturing community .
