YOUNG INNOVATORS AND ENTREPRENEURS – CHANGING THE BUSINESS LANDSCAPE
Thriving communities have one thing in common: a multiplicity of people representing various business models, ideas and points of view. The Fox Cities is making numerous strides to that effect. While many residents make their mark by strategically climbing the corporate ladder, an increasing number of younger leaders are building those ladders themselves and creating innovative businesses by building relationships with one another. Yes, the new look of the Fox Valley of Wisconsin is one that reflects a partnership among established institutions and a new breed of entrepreneur who is looking to develop more independent and innovative paths to success. While the outlook for economic growth is positive and robust here, a lot of that optimism rests on the shoulders of the younger generation of entrepreneur who plays a vital role in keeping industry moving forward. The Fox Valley infrastructure is doing its part, too, by offering collaborative environments and relationship-building opportunities to foster creativity. In some instances, it is established businesses that are tapping younger workers for fresh ideas about better, faster and smarter ways of doing things. At other times, newer businesses are 20 Fox Cities Chamber of Commerce & Industry
culling wisdom from industry vets. With a workforce that is getting progressively older, the Fox Cities knows that it is vital to attract and retain younger people who see the benefits of doing business here. One initiative that has experienced success is Talent Upload, a collective effort of the Fox Cities Chamber of Commerce and the Fox Cities Regional Partnership. This program, aimed at college students from around the Midwest, looks to introduce young leaders to the community, potential employers and other opportunities the area has to offer. “There is a lot of excitement and a ton of momentum” in programs like this, says Adrienne Palm, director of Pulse Young Professionals Network, a program that connects young professionals with continuing education, business development skills or place-making initiatives. Big and small businesses, Palm says are embracing such forms of outreach and being open to new ways of connecting. It’s a time when people welcome creativity and new ideas to achieve common goals. “The young ones are educating people about what they need,” she says. “You can feel the progress happening. It’s an exciting time to be a part of this community.” That is why there’s been a concerted effort to fill the region with various forms of ➤