FOCUS FORWARD UPDATES
WE’RE YOUR ALWAYS-ON, IN-THE-KNOW PARTNER
We’re continuously collecting important information and insights from business and community leaders as well as our economic development partners throughout Wisconsin, so your business has the actionable intelligence it needs to move from surviving to thriving. You’ll find timely and relevant Wisconsin business and economic news as well as up-to-date programs and resources available for your company and community. We’re committed to rolling up our sleeves and working hard alongside you to keep your business and the economy of Wisconsin moving forward.
Menomonie restaurant celebrates its new look
As the winner of the Main Street Makeover contest, Ted’s Pizza Palace received a redesigned storefront and interior improvements. Read More
Apply now for the Broadband Connectors Pilot
The program will support six school districts, local governments or tribal governments in obtaining additional assistance to expand high-speed internet access, with the ultimate goal of incorporating the lessons learned in the pilot to further expand broadband access statewide. Read More
Register now for Small Business Academy virtual program
The Lieutenant Governor’s Conference on Small Business Development takes place online Oct. 6-8. Read More
The Water Council seeks up-and-coming water technology innovators for fall 2020 Tech Challenge
In addition to $15,000 in prize money, the contest—open to entrepreneurs, students, researchers, water-industry professionals and inventive individuals—provides winners the opportunity to partner with a world-class water technology brand on the marketing, licensing or sale of their technology or solution. Read More
Register by Sept. 18 for virtual trade venture to South Korea
The online program, which takes place during the month of November, will connect Wisconsin exporters with potential partners and distributors in South Korea. Each participating Wisconsin company will have meetings arranged with potential partners custom-selected specifically for them; advance registration is required to allow time for market research and arranging well-targeted meetings. Read More
Focus Forward Podcast Ep 6: Meeting the Challenge: COVID Testing with Kevin Conroy
Kevin Conroy, chairman and CEO of Exact Sciences, talks about research and development and teams that drive innovation. WEDC Secretary and CEO Missy Hughes speaks with Conroy about Exact Sciences' pivot to COVID-19 testing. Read More
Attend the final virtual listening session of the Blue Ribbon Commission on Rural Prosperity
During the meeting—Sept. 16 from 3 to 5 p.m., with interpretation provided in Spanish and Hmong—the commission wants to hear from rural Wisconsin residents about issues that are important to them. Read More
Join the Blue Ribbon Commission on Rural Prosperity virtual input session this evening
The goal of the meeting, which takes place online, is to hear from members of the public in rural communities. Interpretation will be provided in Spanish and Hmong. Read More
Inaugural OnRamp Impact Conference happening Sept. 17
This new addition to the OnRamp conference series, which will be offered in a virtual format, will focus on connecting social entrepreneurs with potential corporate partners and investors. Read More
Fishing for understanding and connection
Among the 27,500 recipients of WEDC's We're All In Small Business Grants are eight Lake Superior Wisconsin tribal commercial fishermen. Read More