Rural Economic Development News

We know child care access and affordability are critical for Wisconsin’s workforce productivity and growth, particularly in rural Wisconsin.

One out of three Adams County residents are 65 years old and older (U.S. Census Bureau, 2020). “Adams County is known as a desirable place to retire with the beautiful lakes and vast activities like campgrounds, golf courses, and places to dine. Without reliable child care, parents and caregivers may be faced with having to leave the workforce to care for their children, young children left home alone, or sending children to unregulated child care providers,” said Tina Smith, Foster Care Social Worker.

Prairie du Sac, Sauk City, and Spring Green, Wis. – On Thursday, June 23, Wisconsin Department of Administration (DOA) Secretary-designee Kathy Blumenfeld and Department of Tourism Secretary-designee Anne Sayers met with eight organizations in Southwest Wisconsin to discuss the role of creative organizations and businesses in Wisconsin’s economy and their impact on the pandemic recovery. Governor Tony Evers has made a historic investment for the tourism and entertainment industries totaling over $200 million, the latest of which invested over $20 million to support Tourism Capital Investment statewide.

MADISON, WI. JUN. 21, 2022 - One of the most common myths about rural education is that rural schools are not diverse. Despite numerous studies showing evidence to the contrary, many Americans have a stereotypical view of rural America, envisioning it as a monolith and imagining it to be populated by predominantly white, lower-income people employed in agriculture.

Jerry is a REVAMP program specialist, (Rebuilding Economic Vibrancy After a Major Pandemic). As a liaison to rural Wisconsin, Jerry helps communities and businesses determine their priorities, apply for grants, find technical assistance and connect with existing resources.

MADISON, WI. DEC. 30, 2021 – Wisconsin’s rural communities and residents have access to a new and growing directory of resources and success stories offering aid and inspiration on topics ranging from affordable housing and economic development to cultural programs and environmental protection.

MADISON, WI. AUG. 3, 2021 – Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation (WEDC) Secretary and CEO Missy Hughes and staff will be traveling throughout Wisconsin visiting unique retailers and restaurants to encourage business owners to consider taking part in the new Wisconsin Tomorrow – Main Street Bounceback Grant Program.

MADISON, WI, DEC. 16, 2020 - Gov. Tony Evers today announced the Governor’s Blue Ribbon Commission on Rural Prosperity has released “Rural Voices for Prosperity: A Report of the Governor’s Blue Ribbon Commission on Rural Prosperity,” which calls for coordinated measures across state government to meet the needs of Wisconsin’s rural communities.

MADISON, WI, JUNE 8, 2020 – Governor Tony Evers today named leaders from around the state to the Blue Ribbon Commission on Rural Prosperity.