WHERE BUSINESS MEETS BBQ
CEDC TEAM COMPETES IN INAGURAL BBQ COMPETITION
Training Within Industry (TWI)
Boost
Sep 29-Oct 3, 2025 | 5:00-7:30PM
CEDC - 770 Technology Way
$1,000 per person
WHERE BUSINESS MEETS BBQ
CEDC is proud to share that our very own barbecue team, C2 BBQ-competed in the inaugural Northern Wisconsin State Fair BBQ Cook-off. This exciting new event brought together teams from across the region for a day of sizzling competition, smoky flavors, live music, food trucks, and fun. Yet for CEDC’s C2 BBQ team ( Ken Pearson, Paul Olson, Casey Hedrington, and Charlie Walker ) the competition was about more than just that—it was about representing our organization’s culture of teamwork, creativity, and building connections.
Charlie and Casey fired up the smokers before dawn, Paul whipped up his homemade BBQ Sauce while Ken carefully seasoned meat sponsored by CEDC stakeholder and supporter-Crescent Meats in Cadott. The team, when not tending the fire or adding seasoning to the meats- spent time connecting with attendees who stopped by to learn more about CEDC, watch and cheer them on. Just like in economic development, success at BBQ requires collaboration, patience, and an eye for both the big picture and the smallest details.
Between the aromas of Ken’s smoked Chicken, Casey’s Duck and Spareribs, Paul’s Baby Backs, Charlie’s Pork Loin, and the laughter of families enjoying the competition -C2 BBQ was proud to be part of this inaugural event. It was a meaningful reminder that whether through business growth or shared traditions, our Chippewa thrives when people come together. Just as barbecue takes time, care, and passion, so too does building a strong community and the local economy— and both are always worth the effort.
BEAR ‘25 PITCH COMPETITION
Wisconsin and the Chippewa Valley lags behind some other states and regions in new business formation and job creation per startup, and the rate of new business launches has declined. However, CEDC is focusing on increasing support density, backing founders, and actively encouraging an ecosystem for growth, particularly for second-stage companies.
Did you know there are many Second-stage companies with western Wisconsin. Typically defined as privately owned, growth-oriented firms that usually have annual revenues between $1M and $50M and at least 10 employees. These companies have moved beyond startup challenges and are focused on scaling their operations, growing their markets, and building lasting value in their industries- to help with that CEDC expanded it’s entrepreneur support into a BEAR.
BEAR is a support program and resource that CEDC offers on top of our other programs which include grant funding through HATCH, technical support, training, and mentorship. These are all noted for fostering growth and collaboration among secondstage firms in our region.
CEDC fosters connecting, knowledge sharing, and peer learning through events like the recent BEAR Pitch Competition held at East Bay Event Center in Holcombe, Wisconsin. This event filled the room with business leaders, investors, and community members eager to support the region’s entrepreneurial spirit.
Beginning with an engaging investor–founder speed dating session - where entrepreneurs had the opportunity to sit down with experienced mentors - to gain valuable insights from those who know the ropes. The goal was to simple, share knowledge that can help entrepreneurs take their next big step toward success.
Following the speed dating, over a dozen founders mixed with guests enjoyed time for connections and camaraderie while sampling hors d’oeuvres and sipping CEDC signature “BEAR-Y” cocktails or mocktails eagerly waiting for the “Shark Tank”- like pitch event to begin.
As the pitching portion began, the crowd fell silent, excited to hear their growth and expansion plans. Each pitch was met with abundant applause and thoughtful, challenging questions from an outstanding panel of judges.
GRAND PRIZE WINNER:
Mel Ohlinger of OhmCo Carwash Marketing — OhmCo is redefining the way car wash businesses shine—literally! This highperformance marketing agency combines pristine design with powerful digital solutions to give car wash brands the polish they need to thrive.
“We’re absolutely honored—and honestly, a bit stunned—to receive the Grand Prize. The future is looking shiny and bright!” – Mel Ohlinger
AUDIENCE CHOICE AWARD:
Brittany & Andrew Bakos of A to B Mobile Repair — Serving the Eau Claire–Menomonie area, A to B Mobile Repair brings professional, affordable mechanic services right to your driveway. They earned a whopping 48% of audience votes, proving our crowd knows great service when they see it!
“Events like the BEAR Pitch Competition are a great reminder of the creativity, resilience, and vision we have in the Chippewa Valley,” said Charlie Walker, CEDC President & CEO. “When we connect entrepreneurs with mentors, resources, and community support, we’re not just helping individual businesses succeed—we’re strengthening our entire regional economy.”
The BEAR ’25 Pitch Competition was more than just an event—it was a celebration of the entrepreneurial drive that powers economic development in the Chippewa Valley. By bringing together innovators, mentors, and investors under one roof, we are helping to create a business environment where great ideas can take root, grow, and thrive.
COLLABORATIVE SHOWCASE
THE CHIPPEWA VALLEY IS THRIVING
CEDC is helping to fuel economic progress in the Chippewa Valley through its Collaborative Showcase initiative, delivering measurable gains in workforce development and manufacturing strength. CEDC’s Collaborative Showcases act as catalysts for regional growth by connecting businesses, educators, and government. Local Manufacturers play a critical role in the tax base and social fabric, and their ongoing investments strengthen community resilience and economic health. CEDC connecting events like these were held this past summer at TLD Wollard, TTM Technologies, Hixwood Metals, Cadrex, Automation Displays, Ashley Furniture and Alliance Plastics. Support for manufacturing within our community ensurs that the sector’s growth directly creates local jobs and stimulates small business ecosystems.
BUILDING HOPE
CEDC ADVOCATES FOR $16 MILLION MENTAL HEALTH EXPANSION
Charlie Walker, CEO of the Chippewa Economic Development Corporation (CEDC), provided testimony to both the Wisconsin Assembly in support of AB 388 and the Wisconsin Senate Bill 407, highlighting regional needs and advocating for expanded mental health services within the Chippewa Valley. CEDC Board Member Maureen Carlson testified in favor of SB 407. In both their testimony, they emphasized the importance of rapidly releasing the authorized $10 million grant to Rogers Behavioral Health for constructing an integrated mental health facility in Chippewa Falls. Walker’s Senate testimony stressed the urgent need for mental health infrastructure after local hospital closures. Carlson not-
ed that the new Rogers facility would ease the burden on emergency departments and eliminate the need for families to travel hours for crisis care, directly supporting worker stability and community well-being.
Rogers Behavioral Health expansion will provide several benefits to the Chippewa region. The facility will offer crisis stabilization, residential treatment, partial hospitalization, intensive outpatient programs, and transitional support for both adolescents and adults. The improved mental health services will support local workforce retention and productivity, creating jobs and attracting talent to our community. CEDC’s advocacy for AB 388 and SB
SUMMER BRINGS ASPIRUS TO CHIPPEWA FALLS!
This summer, our community celebrated an exciting new chapter in local healthcare with the groundbreaking of Aspirus Chippewa Falls Hospital and Clinic! Nearly two years after the closure of HSHS St. Joseph’s Hospital, this project is set to fill the gaps in healthcare services and bring new opportunities to Chippewa Falls. Aspirus Health, a nonprofit health system based in Wausau, is leading the way. The new 35,000-square-foot facility will sit on a 22-acre site along Chippewa Crossing Boulevard, right across from Fire Station #1.
Construction is already underway, with doors expected to open in September 2026.
407 shows our commitment to regional health, and economic vitality. The Rogers Behavioral Health facility promises transformative impacts for Chippewa Valley through expanded mental health care, improved community resilience, and enhanced attractiveness for business and workforce development.
SHAPING our Economic Future
ENGAGING COUNTYWIDE BUSINESS LEADERS
This summer, CEDC gathered business leaders from across Chippewa County in Cadott for a lively, collaborative session aimed at capturing firsthand insights from those at the heart of the local economy. By engaging local businesses in updating the county’s comprehensive plan, CEDC is helping ensure that strategies for land use, infrastructure, and economic growth reflect the needs and aspirations of the community. This meeting was a key step in shaping a long-term blueprint that will guide development, investment, and infrastructure decisions for years to come.
Amid the summer energy, CEDC highlighted several strategies to strengthen Chippewa County’s economy. Workforce development initiatives are in focus to attract and retain skilled talent, while expanding broadband access helps businesses and residents stay competitive in a digital world. Infrastructure improvements that boost connectivity and safety were also discussed, along with the pressing need for a new industrial park to provide room for growing businesses and attract new industries. Programs supporting entrepreneurs and start-ups were celebrated as vital tools for sparking local innovation and diversification.
CEDC also emphasized the importance of increasing funding for economic development activities to expand resources for business support, infrastructure projects, and strategic initiatives that drive growth. Strengthening public-private partnerships was highlighted as a way to ensure coordinated and impactful efforts across the region.
The economic development component of the county’s comprehensive plan plays a central role in creating jobs, supporting local businesses, expanding the tax base, and boosting community prosperity. By weaving in the perspectives of the business community and putting these strategies into action, county leaders are helping Chippewa County thrive—creating sustainable employment opportunities, improving local services, and ensuring a bright future for residents.
THANK YOU TO OUR TOP INVESTORS
