When building a home there is a lot of planning work that occurs before building begins. Then there is the messy, unattractive digging and setting of footings before ultimately pouring the foundation. The foundation serves as the footprint and solid base that shapes and supports the house. Economic Development is a lot like building a house. 

Building a solid foundation in economic development entails a lot of hidden work that builds the partnerships and pathways that set the stage for what happens going forward, i.e. what we build. Meetings, phone calls, research, hosting events, asking questions, and more all play a part. 

Making sure the current blueprint stays on course, or maintaining successful programs involves due diligence to achieve goals. Things like the revolving loan fund for growing businesses, being a connected partner with Green County Leaders, and continuing support of childcare initiatives are all important to a solid base and proper structure for GCDC.

Beyond the structural building of a house, is where the fun begins. Selecting finishing touches that determine what the home will look and feel like is much like deciding what programs and services to pursue in economic development. Getting input from others, understanding the associated costs, figuring out how to make things happen, these all play a key part in final decisions and ultimately the type of house you end up with.  

Programs like the Home Construction Cooperative, the Small Business Series, and planning for housing development in Green County are important finishing touches, but as with any home, the work is never done. There is always another project, improvements, and simple maintenance that keeps us busy. Additionally, we see things that naturally fit, things we must push for, and things we must set aside.

As GCDC continues to build our house in Green County, we are grateful to have an incredible foundation. We also gratefully welcome further input and the extra support that makes the process one that many are involved in, one that makes our house a home.

— Green County Development Corporation’s mission is to catalyze economic growth while enhancing the quality of life in Green County, Wisconsin.  They can be reached through their website at www.

greencountydevelopment.com or by calling 608-328-9452. Tracy Brewer is the Marketing & Project Manager of the Green County Development Corporation (GCDC). She can be reached at tracy@

greencountydevelopment.com