Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation

06/16/2026

Big impact in a small space!

A once-vacant spot in Monroe's historic downtown square is now a vibrant park, bringing to life a vision first imagined over a century ago.

The pocket park was funded through local support and a WEDC Vibrant Spaces grant.

Be sure to check out what Jordan Nordby, executive director of Main Street Monroe, Inc., says this project means to the community.

06/15/2026

Applications are now open for Wisconsin Opportunity Zones 2.0!

WEDC is now accepting applications for low-income census tracts to be designated as federal Opportunity Zones—a program designed to attract long-term investment in underserved urban and rural communities.

📅 Apply by: July 31
🏛️ Who can apply: Municipalities, counties, Tribal governments, and other public entities

The selected areas have the opportunity to unlock federal tax incentives for investors, helping drive projects like workforce housing, job creation, and business growth.

Learn more: wedc.org/wisconsin-opportunity-zones

06/12/2026

06/12/2026

Wisconsin may be known for cheese, but it's also a global food and beverage powerhouse.

At the first FaB Wisconsin Member Conference, leaders from Johnsonville, Carbliss, and Organic Valley shared what's driving the industry forward. The discussion moderated by Secretary and CEO John W. Miller highlighted both the strengths that define the industry in Wisconsin today and the opportunities that will shape its future.

So what’s next for one of the nation’s most established food and beverage hubs?

👉 Read the full story to find out:

Food and beverage brand leaders gathered at the 2026 FaB Wisconsin Member Conference to discuss the industry's continued growth.

06/11/2026

For the 13th consecutive year, WEDC earned national recognition for outstanding financial reporting from the GFOA of the US & Canada.

WEDC received the Certificate of Achievement for Excellence from GFOA for its Annual Comprehensive Financial Report for the fiscal year that ended June 30, 2025. The certificate is the highest form of recognition in governmental accounting and financial reporting, and its attainment represents a significant accomplishment by a government and its management, according to the GFOA.

Full release:

Discover how WEDC recognized for excellence in financial reporting showcases transparency and accountability in finance.

06/11/2026

Wisconsin Chambers—your voice matters.

The Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction is hosting listening sessions to strengthen the connection between education and the real world—and they want to hear from you.

Business leaders are invited to share insights on how schools can better prepare students with the durable skills needed to succeed in today’s workforce. Your feedback will directly inform Wisconsin’s Portrait of a Graduate, a shared vision for student success after high school.

🗓️ Join the first virtual session: June 22 | 1-2 p.m.

The meeting link can be found in the comments. 👇

06/10/2026

AI and automation are reshaping manufacturing—but not in the way many expect.

The goal isn’t fewer people. It’s to empower them.

Wisconsin manufacturers are using emerging technologies to amplify human expertise, unlock productivity, and reimagine what work looks like.

That’s how we stay competitive—by putting people at the center of innovation.

Read how industry leaders are putting this idea into action: https://bit.ly/4uuPMsS

Rockwell Automation, Inc.

06/08/2026

New Resource for Rural Housing in Wisconsin!

The Wisconsin Office of Rural Prosperity, in partnership with the Wisconsin Housing and Economic Development Authority (WHEDA), has launched a new housing toolkit to help communities tackle rural housing challenges.

This resource is designed for local leaders, employers, and advocates. You can expect to find the following.

✅ Proven strategies & best practices
✅ Actionable data & financing insights
✅ Guidance on working with developers
✅ Innovative and community-based housing models

By supporting collaboration and investment in workforce housing, this toolkit helps strengthen local economies and keep rural Wisconsin thriving.

Explore the toolkit and share it with partners committed to expanding housing opportunities across the state. ⬇️

https://ruralwi.com/rural-priorities/housing/rural-housing-economic-growth-wisconsin/?j=220303&sfmc_sub=50145993&l=322_HTML&u=3735339&mid=534006630&jb=1

06/04/2026

Governor Tony Evers appoints John Florsheim to the WEDC Board of Directors.

Florsheim is currently the president and chief operating officer of Weyco Group Inc., based in Glendale, Wisconsin.

“I’m honored and excited to join the WEDC Board and look forward to contributing to the important work WEDC does to support economic growth and strengthen communities across Wisconsin,” said Florsheim.

Read more:

Gov. Tony Evers appointed John Florsheim to the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation (WEDC) Board of Directors.