2024 Fall Newsletter

NEWSLETTER VOLUME 24 | ISSUE 11 | FALL 2024

CEDC RECOGNIZED FOR

SHAPING A SKILLED WORKFORCE

UPCOMING EVENTS WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 13, 2024 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM HATCH River Bend Winery & Distillery 10439 33rd Ave, Chippewa Falls, WI 54729

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 19, 2024 4:30PM - 6:30PM CEDC Holiday Gathering Market on River 128 W River St, Chippewa Falls, WI 54729

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 6, 2024 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM Manufacturing Training Topic: Training within Industry (TWI) CVTC - Chippewa Falls Campus 770 Scheidler Rd, Chippewa Falls, WI 54729

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 7, 2025 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM Manufacturing Training Topic: Automation CVTC - Chippewa Falls Campus 770 Scheidler Rd, Chippewa Falls, WI 54729

Air Service

FRIDAY, MARCH 4, 2025 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM Manufacturing Training Topic: Cyber Culture for Compliance and Competition CVTC - Chippewa Falls Campus 770 Scheidler Rd, Chippewa Falls, WI 54729

UPDATES

Starting December 13, United Express flights will connect our community even further by offering daily scheduled service through their carrier SkyWest Airlines.

Chippewa Valley Regional Airport and Sun Country have partnered to offer nonstop seasonal service to Fort Myers, Florida for the winter! Travelers can enjoy an easy, nonstop flight to the sunshine state right from EAU beginning January 31 - April 7th, 2025.

Don’t delay as these flights are expected to fill up fast.

Book now at suncountry.com and #gettogoing.

NOVEMBER 13-15, 2024

STARTUP WEEK

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rom November 11-15, the Chippewa Economic Development Corporation (CEDC) will participate in Startup Week Wisconsin in the Chippewa Valley—a highlight for local entrepreneurs, investors, and business leaders alike.

Each year, CEDC collaborates with its economic development partners to bring together a thriving community dedicated to energizing the local startup ecosystem. This week of activities is all about sparking growth and innovation, creating prime opportunities for startups to gain traction and succeed.

The week’s agenda is packed with events spanning the region, including workshops, panel discussions, networking sessions, and talks from influential speakers. Each event is designed to fuel innovation, connect resources, and support startup growth. One such event is CEDC’s HATCH, a well-regarded platform held in multiple Chippewa Valley venues each year. HATCH invites new entrepreneurs to pitch their ideas, gain feedback, and connect with investors and partners, providing a unique opportunity for collaboration, knowledge-sharing, and driving local innovation forward.

CEDC’s dedication to building a vibrant entrepreneurial community is crucial for the economic health and success of the Chippewa Valley. Thanks to our supporters, we’re able to cultivate the environment necessary for new businesses to grow and for creative ideas to become reality.

Want to get involved?

Contact us to learn more about supporting and participating in our efforts to strengthen the local startup community. By backing CEDC, you’re directly contributing to job creation, business development, and innovation that bolsters the Chippewa Valley’s economy.

CHIPPEWA-WI.COM | PAGE 3

a Celebration of

INNOVATION & ENTREPRENEURSHIP NOVEMBER 13, 2024, 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM RIVER BEND WINERY & DISTILLERY

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s part of Wisconsin Startup Week and Startup Chippewa Valley, we are thrilled to invite you to the HATCH 2024 Pitch Competition, an event designed to highlight the entrepreneurial spirit of the Chippewa Valley and foster meaningful connections between entrepreneurs and investors.

This year, HATCH promises to be an exhilarating evening where innovation meets opportunity. Whether you’re an entrepreneur ready to take your business to the next level or an investor seeking promising ventures, this event has something for everyone.

FOR ENTREPRENEURS Unleash your potential at the annual HATCH Business Pitch Competition! This is your chance to present your innovative business strategies to a live audience of investors and industry experts. Benefits of participating include: • Maximized Exposure: Showcase your business growth strategy in front of potential investors and peers.

• Valuable Feedback: Receive constructive insights from experienced judges to refine your pitch.

• Networking Opportunities: Connect with fellow entrepreneurs and industry leaders to build lasting relationships.

• Win Recognition: Compete for the chance to gain notoriety as a winner and enhance your business profile.

• Community Engagement: Become an integral part of the Chippewa Valley business community.

Mark your calendars and submit your application today.

For inquiries, please contact brittany@chippewa-wi.com or call 715-723-7150.

FOR INVESTORS HATCH 2024 also offers investors a unique opportunity to be at the forefront of the Chippewa Valley’s burgeoning business scene.

• Intimate Networking: Build relationships with local businesses and community leaders in a relaxed setting.

• Exclusive Access: Discover exciting investment opportunities that may impact the Chippewa Valley’s economy.

• Dynamic Presentations: Watch entrepreneurs present their visions in a high-stakes environment.

• Local Insights: Gain a deeper understanding of the entrepreneurial landscape in our region and uncover hidden gems for investment.

EVENT ITINERARY 6:00–7:00 PM: Food Truck Show ‘n Shine 7:00–7:10 PM: Food Truck Show ‘n Shine Awards 7:10–7:20 PM: Keynote Address 7:20–8:30 PM: Pitches and Q&A with Judges 8:30–8:50 PM: Judges/Attendees Vote/Sponsor Highlights 8:50– 9:00 PM: Awards & Photo Session

Don’t miss out on this opportunity to connect, collaborate, and celebrate entrepreneurship in the Chippewa Valley! We look forward to seeing you at HATCH 2024!

PAGE 4 | CHIPPEWA COUNTY ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION

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CEDC invites you to sponsor this high profile annual entrepreneurial event. Seize this valuable opportunity to generate top-of-mind awareness for your company among leading venture capitalists, investment bankers, corporate/private investors, and executives of emerging companies. Support the spirit of entrepreneurship!

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VIP Investor Cocktail Hour signage & 2 tickets to COCKTAIL HOUR VIP Investor Cocktail Hour signage & 2mention tickets to COCKTAIL HOUR National post-event press release

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Sponsor our PRE-HATCH event - the VIP Investor & Entrepreneur Cocktail Hour. The hour leading up to our HATCH 2024 event will Sponsor our PRE-HATCH event - the VIP Investor & Entrepreneur Cocktail Hour. The hour leading up to our HATCH 2024 event will VIP Investor Hourfor signage & 2 tickets to COCKTAIL HOUR members, and HATCH participants to connect. be an INVITE ONLYCocktail reception interested investors, community be an INVITE ONLY reception for interested investors, community members, and HATCH participants to connect.

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Respond early to get your name in all of the advertising and registration materials. Please complete the Respond early to get your name in all of the advertising and registration materials. Please complete the requested information below and email: brittany@chippewa-wi.com requested below andCocktail email:Hour. brittany@chippewa-wi.com Investor & Entrepreneur The hour leading up to our HATCH 2024 event will Sponsor our PRE-HATCH event - the VIP information be an INVITE ONLY reception for interested investors, community members, and HATCH participants to connect.

Name: ___________________________________________ Phone: ________________________________________________ Name:Cocktail $250 Hour Signage, 2 Tickets to COCKTAIL HOUR (HATCH SOLD SEPARATELY), & Facebook Shoutout ___________________________________________ Phone: ________________________________________________ Organization: ____________________________________________ Email: _________________________________________________ Organization: ____________________________________________ Email: _________________________________________________ Address: __________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Respond early to get your name in all of the advertising and registration materials. Please complete the Address: __________________________________________________________________________________________________________ requested information below and email: brittany@chippewa-wi.com Sponsor Level: � $250 � $500 � $750 � $1,000 � $1,500 � $2,000 Sponsor Level: � $250 � $500 � $750 � $1,000 � $1,500 � $2,000 Payment Method: � check enclosed � invoice me Name: ___________________________________________ Phone: ________________________________________________ Payment Method: � check enclosed � invoice me Signature: Organization: _________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________ Email: _________________________________________________ Signature: _________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Address: __________________________________________________________________________________________________________

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CEDC RECOGNIZED FOR

SHAPING A SKILLED WORKFORCE T he Chippewa Economic Development Corporation (CEDC) has a longstanding commitment to driving economic progress throughout the Chippewa Valley, with workforce development as one of our most impactful initiatives. For years, CEDC has collaborated closely with local high schools, preparing students with the skills essential for future careers and aligning education with the changing needs of local industries.

Recently, CEDC Vice Chair Deb Chilson and President/CEO Charlie Walker attended a meeting with the Chippewa Falls School Board, where the school district acknowledged CEDC’s efforts in workforce readiness and talent recruitment by nominating the organization for the 2024 Wisconsin Association of School Boards (WASB) Business Honor Roll. This annual honor highlights Wisconsin businesses that provide exceptional support to local schools, and this year, 59 school districts statewide nominated 186 businesses for their contributions.

“CEDC recognizes that strong schools are fundamental to attracting new businesses and residents to the Chippewa Valley,” said Deb Chilson. “Through investing in high school programs, we not only boost the quality of education but also enhance the area’s appeal for business investments and entrepreneurial growth. Our focus on talent development helps retain skilled graduates, linking them to local job opportunities and strengthening our workforce.”

The WASB nomination celebrates the shared commitment of schools and local businesses to build a supportive environment where students, educators, and community members benefit. CEDC’s partnership with area schools provides school board members, staff, and educators with insights into high-demand skills and industry trends, which better equip students for the workforce. The organization’s Talent Attraction and Retention (TAR) program offers opportunities such as internships, apprenticeships, and job-shadowing. Students gain exposure to career paths through guest speakers, mentorships, and career fairs, along with site visits to local companies and participation in events like STEAM Night at Chippewa Falls High School. Each initiative connects students with real-world experiences and introduces them to careers within the Chippewa Valley.

As a link between schools, businesses, and the community, CEDC fosters a collaborative environment that supports education while fueling regional economic growth.

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CHIPPEWA-WI.COM | PAGE 7

CYBER FORWARD

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s technology evolves rapidly, the CEDC remains dedicated to promoting innovation and growth within the Chippewa Valley. Recently, CEDC hosted an insightful business expansion and retention (BEAR) lunch-and-learn series focused on cyber security – both physical and technological, A.I, and crypto. These events brought together local business leaders, entrepreneurs, and professionals, all eager to learn about the transformative power of artificial intelligence and cyber security. Held at Chippewa Valley Technical College (CVTC) in Chippewa Falls, the most recent BEAR Lunch featured expert speakers Susan Ramonat, Bob Clint, and Bob Oliver, who provided valuable insights into:

es they’ve faced and the opportunities AI has opened up in their operations. Prior to the most recent Lunch & Learn, the previous presenters were Doug Ebert, of Core Cabling and Integrations covering the topic of physical cyber security and Stephen Casselman, IT-Network Specialist Instructor at CVTC. CEDC President/CEO Charlie Walker spoke on the importance of embracing AI: “Generative AI is far more than a passing trend; it’s a transformative asset for businesses of all sizes. By arming our local entrepreneurs with the right knowledge and tools, we’re ensuring that the Chippewa Valley stays competitive on a global scale.” Over lunch, provided by Churchill’s Pizza, attendees networked with AI experts and fellow business professionals, sparking conversations around possible collaborations and partnerships.

• Essentials of generative AI and its business applications • Real-world examples of AI in action across different industries

• Interactive demonstrations of widely used generative AI tools

Looking ahead, CEDC is committed to offering resources and educational events that support the growth of the local business community. Keep an eye out for more BEAR events and workshops that aim to keep the Chippewa Valley at the forefront of technological progress.

A highlight of the BEAR Lunch & Learn was a Q&A session, during which local business owners discussed their experiences with AI, including both the challeng-

Stay informed about upcoming BEAR events and workshops by visiting Chippewa-wi.com or following us on social media.

• Ethical issues and best practices for adopting AI responsibly

www.chippewa-wi.com

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715-723-7150 |

info@chippewa-wi.com

770 Technology Way, Chippewa Falls, WI 54729