In rural communities, limited resources often pose significant challenges to economic development. Budgets are tight, workforce shortages persist, and infrastructure improvements are costly. However, partnerships between the public and private sectors can transform these challenges into opportunities, allowing communities to achieve goals that would be otherwise unattainable.
At Green County Development Corporation (GCDC), partnerships are not just a strategy — they are our foundation. As an organization funded equally by public and private sector contributions, we embody the collaborative spirit necessary for driving meaningful economic development. This blend of funding is not only a testament to the trust our community places in us but also one of our greatest strengths. It allows us to bring diverse perspectives and resources to the table, ensuring that our initiatives are both innovative and deeply rooted in the needs of Green County.
Collaborative Solutions for Limited Resources
In rural areas, where resources are constrained, collaboration is especially critical. Public-Private Partnerships allow stakeholders to pool resources, share risks, and innovate to address economic development challenges. At GCDC, almost every initiative that we have championed highlights the power of collaboration. Examples include:
1. Home Construction Cooperative
In Green County, the rising shortage of affordable housing and the growing demand for skilled tradespeople are pressing challenges. To address these issues, local governments, nonprofit organizations, and educational institutions have come together to establish the Home Construction Cooperative. By pooling resources — such as funding, land, and expertise — we are building high-quality homes that meet the needs of both local workers and families. This initiative ensures that housing becomes an asset, not an obstacle, to economic growth. Additionally, it provides valuable hands-on learning opportunities for local students, helping to develop the next generation of skilled tradespeople.
2. Business Revolving Loan Fund
Access to capital remains a significant challenge for small and emerging businesses in rural communities. To address this, our Business Revolving Loan Fund (RLF) brings together public and private stakeholders who have invested both time and money to provide low-interest loans to businesses poised for growth. This initiative has empowered entrepreneurs to expand their operations, fostered job creation, and spurred economic development throughout the county — demonstrating the impact of collaborative, community-driven investment.
3. Small Business Series
Education is a cornerstone of economic development. In partnership with The Bank of New Glarus and the Small Business Development Center, GCDC has launched the Small Business Series — a program designed to equip entrepreneurs with essential skills in areas such as business planning, marketing, and financial management. These workshops leverage the expertise of private-sector professionals while aligning with broader community economic goals, demonstrating the power of collaboration and the impact of our funding model.
Building a Sustainable Future
The success of GCDC is built on the very partnerships we promote. Being funded equally by public entities and private businesses ensures that our efforts reflect the collective needs of Green County. This funding model gives us the flexibility to address challenges creatively and equitably, fostering trust among our stakeholders and enabling us to act as a bridge between public and private interests.
Partnerships enable us to address immediate needs while building long-term capacity in our community. By uniting innovation from the private sector with the equity-driven mission of the public sector, GCDC fosters a resilient economy and ensures development efforts align with the needs and aspirations of all Green County residents.
A Call to Action
As the Executive Director of Green County Development Corporation, I see daily how partnerships are a catalyst for progress. Whether it’s building homes, supporting workforce development, or launching programs like the Small Business Series, collaboration lies at the heart of our efforts.
Our unique funding model positions GCDC as a powerful force for economic development. It allows us to remain agile, innovative, and community focused.
To learn more about how we’re fostering partnerships to enhance economic development in Green County, please visit our website or contact us at (608) 328-9452 or gcdc@greencountydevelopment.com. Together, we can create a brighter future for our communities.
— 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.
