Thrive Rural Wisconsin – Cohort 1 Projects

Ten communities were selected to participate in the inaugural cohort, representing a diverse cross-section of rural Wisconsin. These communities are working on projects that include housing development, downtown revitalization, entrepreneurship, and capacity building. By investing in local leadership and providing tools for long-term success, Thrive Rural Wisconsin is helping build resilient and vibrant communities where all residents can thrive.

Thrive Rural Wisconsin - Cohort 1 projects

Renewable Energy and efficiency for Vernon County

The Project

In urban areas electrical utilities are generally offered by one or two companies. Rural areas are served by multiple municipal, investor owned, and cooperative utility companies. Vernon County is currently served by eight different electrical utility companies with various policies, tariffs, and regulatory frameworks. A comprehensive energy plan must account for the range of policies across utilities, create a framework and solutions to benefit utility customers across the spectrum. Vernon County Energy District (VCED) will coordinate diverse stakeholders to address shared challenges and ensure that the benefits of a clean energy future are shared across sectors, geographic lines and socio-economic differences. The development of a strong strategy and business plan to support and expand the existing program is needed to ensure long term viability.

Project progress and Achievements

  • Consultant Engagement: Review and selection of a consultant with knowledge and understanding of the region was completed with the engagement of the University of Wisconsin-Madison – Lacrosse Extension.
  • Strategic Plan: A strategic plan was completed in conjunction with the University of Wisconsin-Madison – Lacrosse Extension. This plan established the values, mission and long-term vision for VCED. This included an analysis of the current state of the VCED and establishment of strategic goals and strategies for the future.
  • Business Plan: A business plan was completed in conjunction with the University of Wisconsin-Madison – Lacrosse Extension. The plan is focused on the following three areas to provide the greatest impact to customers and support ongoing operations:
  • Energy Assessment and Auditing
  • Energy Planning and Implementation
  • Community Education
  • Market Survey: The VCED completed a county wide survey to ascertain the current factors that both motivated and inhibited individuals from taking action on energy related improvements.

Growth and Support for Sawyer County/Lac Courte Oreilles Economic Development Corporation

The Project

The Sawyer County / Lac Courte Oreilles Economic Development Corporation (SCLCOEDC) will provide entrepreneurs in Sawyer County an opportunity to jump start their businesses. They believe that creating an incubator program will enhance their current economic growth and ensure long-term economic stability in Sawyer County. The incubator project will provide technical assistance and affordable space for entrepreneurs to access educational tools and support needed to start and operate a successful business. The SCLCOEDC will provide support businesses with seminars, training, and social networking events to attract and retain businesses within the county.

Project progress and achievements

  • Consultant Engagement: Researched and selection of a qualified consultant to provide a feasibility study, business plan creation and one on one business consultation with entrepreneurs. Superior Marketing, a Native owned professional consultant firm was engaged due to their critical knowledge of both Native American and regional economic factors.
  • Permanent Office Location: SCLCOEDC has secured office space within a new building currently being constructed on main street Hayward. The Lumber Exchange office space is being developed by local entrepreneur as a hub for collaboration, innovation and business development. SCLCOEDC office in this building allows for visibility, easy access, and the ability to expand services.
  • Entrepreneurial Support: As of July 1, 2025, SCLCOEDC has provided Technical Development assistance to 42 individuals within Sawyer County. These services included business plan development, market research, financial accounting and product and services review.

Capacity building and Organizational Development of the Red Cliff Business Development Corporation

The Project

An integral part of the Red Cliff Tribe’s Economic Diversification Strategy is to build and improve the capacity of the Red Cliff Business Development Corporation. The Board currently manages the Buffalo Bay Store (BBS) and Red Cliff Storage while managing tribal enterprises and carrying out the economic development goals of the Tribe. By improving the board’s knowledge and skill set they can increase the resources available to support tribal business and encourage entrepreneurial opportunities for Red Cliff Tribal members.

Project progress and achievements:

Consultant Engagement: Selection of a Native owned technical consultant with knowledge and experience in business development and strategic planning with indigenous and tribal organizations.

Affordable Senior Housing in the Village of Cornucopia

The Project

There is a critical need for senior housing in rural communities like Cornucopia, where it enables older adults to live independently while staying connected to essential services, healthcare, and social support. The Senior Housing Initiative in Cornucopia is focused on improving the quality of life for older residents, reflecting Bayfield County’s strong commitment to building a supportive and inclusive community.

Housing dedicated to seniors strengthens community vitality by freeing up larger homes for families and helping older adults remain connected to the places they call home. The Bayfield County Housing Authority, in collaboration with its partners and the Thrive Rural initiative, is actively addressing the housing needs of independent seniors in Cornucopia. The progress made so far highlights the power of community collaboration and a shared dedication to meeting local needs.

Progress and Achievements

  • Community Engagement and Site Identification: a suitable location for the development has been successfully identified. A team of professionals has been enlisted to engage the community, conduct a certified site survey, and draft renderings of the proposed development.
  • Design Wisconsin Charette Process: The Design Wisconsin charette process has been completed, providing valuable insights and community feedback that have shaped the project’s direction.
  • Cornucopia Independent Senior Living Report: A comprehensive report on the Cornucopia Independent Senior Living project has been completed, outlining the project’s scope, objectives, and anticipated impact on the community.
  • Property Sale Negotiations: A draft letter of intent to sell is currently in process with the property owner, marking a crucial step towards securing the site for development.
  • Survey Firm Engagement: A survey firm has been engaged to define the property boundaries and explore possible site designs, ensuring the development is both feasible and sustainable.

Pittsville Community Development Initiative

Project Overview

Pittsville is taking a major step toward strengthening its community by establishing a nonprofit organization focused on outdoor recreation, business development, and housing. At the heart of this initiative is the creation of a multipurpose building in downtown Pittsville that will serve as a vibrant community hub. This space will support a range of uses, including community events, business incubation, rental opportunities, and housing.

This collaborative effort, driven by Wood County, the City of Pittsville, the Pittsville School District, and engaged community members, demonstrates a shared commitment to building a more connected, resilient, and thriving community.

Project Progress

  • Wood County Collaboration: Significant strides have been made in the initial planning phase, including the development of high-quality renderings, in collaboration with the University of Wisconsin Extension.
  • Cran City Corner Nonprofit: Established in Pittsville with the mission to use the facility as a hub for economic development, serving as a catalyst for business growth and community development.
  • Land Purchase: The purchase of both a city parcel and an adjoining second parcel has been completed.
  • Design Consultant: A consultant has been engaged to design the building for the site consisting of second story housing and first floor retail which will house Cran City Corner and a branch of local bank.

inVenture North and Marinette County: Replicable Rural Housing Solutions

The Project

In Marinette County, InVenture North is leading a strategic initiative in partnership with the Village of Wausaukee and the City of Peshtigo to expand the region’s housing inventory and address long-standing barriers to rural development. Recognizing the critical link between housing availability and economic growth, the team is working to create a replicable model that other rural communities can adopt.

At the heart of this effort is the establishment of a county-wide housing trust fund. This fund is designed to support the development of attainable housing across all income levels and will serve as a flexible resource for municipalities. Potential uses include planning studies, consulting services, infrastructure improvements, and incentives to attract developers. By lowering the financial and logistical hurdles to housing development, the trust fund aims to unlock new opportunities for growth and stability throughout Marinette County.

Progress and Achievements

  • Completed a comprehensive site plan and cost estimates for a 10+ acre mixed-use affordable housing development in Wausaukee.
  • Released a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) to attract developers.
  • After the RFQ, the Leadership Team along with the president of the village board, met with an interested developer on refining the site plan to include multi-family and single-family, owner-occupied housing.
  • Initiated consultant-led planning for the City of Peshtigo affordable housing project. Thus far, a preliminary plan has been presented to the Leadership Team for review and comments.  It is anticipated that a final plan will be delivered by EOY 2025.

Bonduel: Rich in Tradition, Ready for Renewal

The Project:

With support from Shawano County Economic Progress Inc. and the Thrive Rural Wisconsin program, Bonduel is positioning itself as a “Community of Choice.” Local leaders are addressing long-standing challenges, including a limited housing inventory and a downtown district marked by vacant buildings. Their proactive approach includes the formation of a Redevelopment Authority and the development of a comprehensive Downtown Redevelopment Plan.

Project Highlights:

  • Housing Expansion: The village unlocked seven new residential lots, catalyzing the development of a 16-unit apartment complex now under construction. These efforts are part of a broader strategy to diversify housing options and attract new residents.
  • Downtown Revitalization: Bonduel has engaged a consultant to guide the creation of a Redevelopment Authority and plan, with the goal of transforming underutilized properties into vibrant community assets.

Engaged with architects on the possible redevelopment of a catalytic building in the downtown that sits on the primary corner.  This redevelopment hopes to include first floor retail/commercial and 5 residential apartments on the second floor.

Kewaunee County Economic Development Organization – Building a Countywide Housing Solution

The Project

Kewaunee County Economic Development Corporation (KCEDC) is leading a bold initiative to address rural housing challenges through Project H.O.M.E.S.T.E.A.D., a transformative model that builds local capacity, promotes sustainability, and drives economic growth across Wisconsin. By aligning communities around a shared housing strategy, KCEDC is creating a replicable approach that can benefit rural regions statewide.

Project Progress & Achievements

  • Countywide Housing Study Completed: A unified housing assessment has enabled the three target communities to align around a shared vision and begin collaborative planning.
  • Multiple presentations have been made to local municipalities by the consultant conducting the housing study. These sessions provided an opportunity for elected officials and community members to hear results and what the next steps are for phase two of the housing study.  This work will be funded by a second capacity building grant from WEDC.

Town of Phelps’ Reimagining Former Hospital Site

The Project

The Vilas County Economic Development Corporation and the Town of Phelps are partnering to transform a long-abandoned lakeside hospital into a dynamic commercial destination. Overlooking scenic North Twin Lake, the 5.5-acre site, vacant for nearly a decade, will be reimagined as a catalyst for economic growth, generating new jobs, increasing tax revenue, and revitalizing community life throughout Vilas County.

Project Progress

  • The WEDC capacity building grants enabled crucial groundwork for future development, including a market site analysis and demolition of the old hospital building.
  • Redevelopment Resources completed a comprehensive market analysis of the former hospital site that included a focus group with town residents. The analysis identified needs for housing, commercial/retail spaces, and a boutique hotel.
  • Cedar Corp is creating a plan for the hospital site, aiming to develop a mixed-use development that incorporates the highest and best uses identified in the market analysis. This strategic approach sets the stage for transformative growth and revitalization. To date, Cedar Corp has presented two versions of a mixed-use development for the site that will include retail/commercial along with residential units to address the housing needs of Phelps.  Additionally, concept plans will include roof top plazas to allow for a relaxed viewing of beautiful North Twin Lake.

Village of Gays Mills’ Public Pavillion

FEMA’s strategic investment in Gays Mills laid the groundwork for long-term resilience.

After two catastrophic floods in 2007 and 2008, FEMA provided targeted funding, including property acquisitions, elevations, and infrastructure development, that catalyzed broader community buy-in and leveraged additional investments. Today, The Village of Gays Mills Connect Communities, in partnership with Driftless Development, Inc. is building on that momentum with a transformative public pavilion and community hub designed to foster connection, attract visitors, and support sustainable growth in the Driftless Region. Featuring a commercial kitchen and inclusive playground, this space is designed to enrich daily life, foster connection, and support local events.

The initiative aims to attract visitors, inspire new housing development, and make development-ready lots more appealing to potential homeowners. By investing in dynamic public spaces, the project will help activate uptown Gays Mills, stimulate economic growth, and strengthen the village’s role as a welcoming destination in the Driftless Region.

Progress to date:

Vierbicher has delivered a concept plan with budget estimates for the pavilion.  The proposed covered pavilion will serve as a flexible space for community events, markets, and gatherings, while the dedicated Performing Arts Stage will host cultural performances and local talent. Essential amenities, including restrooms and food service facilities, will support both everyday use and special events.

A reimagined playground with vibrant new equipment will offer an inclusive, engaging space for children of all abilities. Together, these enhancements will create a welcoming environment that attracts new residents, supports local businesses, and energizes community life in Gays Mills.

The next phase of the project will include a concept plan for the area surrounding the pavilion site that will include residential considerations for lots designated as such and a multi-use building that aims to combine retail/office with second floor housing.

Back to Thrive Rural Wisconsin

For more information, please contact:

Jim Cleveland
Rural Development Specialist
james.cleveland@wedc.org
608.210.6743

Paul O’Connor
Rural Development Specialist
paul.occonor@wedc.org
608.210.6729