With 2024 well underway, now is a great time to reflect on 2023 and the accomplishments that went with it. Our team at Green County Development Corporation (GCDC) is constantly working to attract and retain businesses and top talent to this wonderful region. Throughout 2023, we worked to develop several programs, received grants, and reached many goals to help make Green County stand out. Through these efforts, we hope that Green County continues to be an attractive place to live, work, and grow.
Here are a few highlights illustrating GCDC’s effectiveness in promoting and encouraging quality economic growth in Green County, Wisconsin:
GCDC’s Initiatives Tackle Housing Challenges and Foster Skill Development in Green County
GCDC is actively addressing housing challenges as part of its commitment to expanding the local workforce and providing companies with a broader pool of talent. In 2023, GCDC collaborated with the Green County Healthy Community Coalition to organize two significant events: the Housing Summit in May and the Housing Forum in December. These gatherings brought together community stakeholders to discuss the housing shortage and explore potential solutions. The December meeting also highlighted the recently conducted Green County Housing Study, offering valuable insights into the housing needs.
In addition to these discussions, we partnered with the Monroe School District to launch the Home Construction Cooperative. In May 2023, SSM Health Monroe generously donated a home to GCDC. Throughout the 2023-2024 school year, students from Monroe High School have the opportunity to renovate the house, gaining hands-on skills and a deeper understanding of the trades. This successful program is set to continue in 2024, with the potential inclusion of more school districts. It could not have been accomplished without the generous support of many local businesses and organizations.
GCDC Empowers Entrepreneurs in Green County through Innovative Support Programs
Recognizing the scarcity of entrepreneurial support in rural communities across Green County and understanding the pivotal role entrepreneurship plays in economic development, our team at GCDC, in collaboration with The Bank of New Glarus in Green County and the Southwest Wisconsin Small Business Development Center (SBDC), organized a free, in-person Small Business Series. This series concluded with a cash prize Pitch Contest aimed at supporting entrepreneurs in launching and growing their businesses through education, individual consulting, and mentoring. Thanks to SBDC support, this initiative led to the establishment of four new businesses, with a capital infusion totaling $1.75 million.
Building on the success of the Small Business Series, we were motivated to continue supporting entrepreneurs. In November 2023, we once again partnered with SBDC to facilitate an Intro to AI class, encouraging individuals from diverse backgrounds to explore this emerging technology and apply it to their businesses.
GCDC’s Commitment to Local Businesses
At GCDC, ensuring the success of our local businesses is a top priority, which is why we’ve continued to support and market the Revolving Loan Fund. Through this fund, we provide low-interest loans to expanding manufacturers in Green County. In the past five years alone, we’ve disbursed over $400,000 to companies throughout the county.
Another integral aspect of our work involves annual meetings with our local businesses, we call these visits our Business Retention and Expansion program. These visits serve as a valuable opportunity for us to directly engage with businesses and gather insights. The feedback we receive during these sessions guides our priorities for the upcoming year. In 2023, we conducted visits with over 30 businesses, further strengthening our commitment to supporting the local business community.
GCDC’s Initiatives for Quality Childcare and Broadband Accessibility in Green County
As Green County faces a workforce shortage, it becomes crucial to continually enhance our quality of life metrics. This involves a focus on areas such as childcare and broadband accessibility.
With support from community partners, GCDC has made significant strides in providing more opportunities for quality childcare across Green County. Through securing over $100,000 in grant funding and business donations, we have worked towards establishing enhanced options for quality care.
Additionally, GCDC has collaborated closely with the Green County government to develop a strategic plan for broadband expansion. This initiative aims to broaden our network of broadband providers, as well as increase our chances of securing grant funding for further improvements.
GCDC’s Channels for Business and Community Engagement
At GCDC, we are dedicated to the shared goal of fostering community growth. Our staff actively establishes various channels to engage with local businesses and residents.
Businesses have the opportunity to connect with GCDC through the Green County Leaders Program. This program, conducted in partnership with UW Extension — Green County, is specifically designed for local entrepreneurs and business owners to create plans for the future growth of their enterprises. In 2023, we experienced our highest participation ever, with 32 individuals benefiting from the program.
Another avenue for community connection is through our regularly held events. In 2023, we organized three community conversations and two leadership breakfasts. These events highlighted different communities in the county, providing attendees with valuable networking and learning opportunities.
GCDC’s Commitment to Continuous
At GCDC, our daily goal is to embrace continuous learning and strive to become the premier economic development organization in the state. To achieve this, we actively participate in regular conferences and work to lead the region in economic development as well.
This past year, I had the honor of being elected as the President of Prosperity Southwest, our regional economic development group. Additionally, I was awarded the Mid-America EDC 2023 Bob Ady Scholarship, which not only sponsored my attendance at two economic development conferences but also provided monthly mentoring opportunities.
Through these engagements, including the scholarship and regional economic leadership role, I had the fantastic opportunity to learn from others and bring valuable knowledge back to Green County. I am very grateful for the learning opportunities that have been provided to me over the past year.
In summary, 2023 has proven to be a remarkable year for GCDC, marked by a commitment to continuous learning, active engagement with local businesses, and strong regional leadership. Our ongoing goal at GCDC is to persistently focus on improvement and growth, contributing to the shaping of a prosperous future for Green County. As we reflect on the achievements of the past year, we eagerly anticipate and strive for continued growth and success in 2024.
To support these efforts, renew your membership in 2024 or join GCDC today to start making a difference in your community.
— Olivia Otte is the Executive Director of the Green County Development Corporation (GCDC). She can be reached at Olivia@greencountydevelopment.com, or by calling 608-328-9452.
