organization profile

The GRID

About Us

The GRID, which stands for Guiding Rural Innovation and Development, is a collaborative economic development initiative focused on building a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship in northern Wisconsin to generate a vibrant and diverse rural economy.

Our Mission

The GRID champions entrepreneurial thinking and cultivates an entrepreneurial ecosystem that drives regional economic vitality and connects business builders to the resources, education, expertise, and social connections that will help new ventures succeed and help entrepreneurs thrive in the Northwoods.

Who We Serve

The GRID region consists of eight underserved rural counties of North Central Wisconsin (Florence, Forest, Langlade, Lincoln, Marinette, Oconto, Oneida, and Vilas Counties) and includes three tribal communities (Forest County Potawatomi, Lac Du Flambeau Band of Lake Superior Chippewa, and the Sokaogon Chippewa Community).

  • The GRID cultivates a culture of innovation
  • The GRID celebrates the benefits of innovation in the community
  • The GRID provides training for innovators and entrepreneurs
  • The GRID connects business builders to resources, education and expertise