ABOUT
About Us: Central Wisconsin Economic Development Fund
For over two decades, CWED has worked alongside regional partners to advance business development and economic vitality across Central Wisconsin. Our programs empower local growth and strengthen the region’s future.
GOALS
Fund Objectives & Impact
CWED’s fund makes impactful investments in local business growth and community development. We prioritize projects that create jobs, expand opportunity, and enhance quality of life throughout Central Wisconsin.
Support Local Business Growth
CWED provides accessible financing to help businesses start, expand, and innovate. By filling lending gaps, we empower entrepreneurs to create jobs and strengthen the local economy.
Foster Regional Collaboration
We work closely with communities, lenders, and development organizations to align resources and amplify impact. Together, we build a stronger, more resilient Central Wisconsin economy.
Community Development
Our investments go beyond business—supporting projects that enhance infrastructure, revitalize downtowns, and improve quality of life. CWED’s funding helps ensure long-term prosperity for the region.
Region Served
Serving 10 Counties Across Central Wisconsin
CWED serves businesses across the North Central Wisconsin Regional Planning Commission boundary, representing a unique partnership of ten counties and nine municipalities working together for regional economic growth.
Through this collaboration, we pool technical, administrative, and financial resources to offer entrepreneurs access to flexible financing with competitive rates and terms designed to support real growth.
Serving Adams, Forest, Juneau, Langlade, Lincoln, Marathon, Oneida, Portage, Vilas, and Wood counties.
How We Work
Partnership, Not Competition
CWED doesn't compete with banks—we complement them. Our loan programs work alongside traditional lenders to fill financing gaps and make projects possible when additional capital is needed.
We provide direct loans and participate in loans with other lenders, offering low interest rates, reduced collateral requirements, and flexible terms that support businesses at every stage
MISSION
Our Mission
The Central Wisconsin Economic Development Fund provides business financing that promotes economic growth through recruitment, expansion, and retention of business and industry. We fill gaps in the local market and stimulate private sector capital investments by working in partnership with lending institutions.
Our Core Objectives
01.
Encourage creation and retention of permanent jobs with quality wages and benefits
01.
Encourage creation and retention of permanent jobs with quality wages and benefits
02.
Leverage new private and public investment in fixed assets, particularly land and buildings
03.
Increase tax base for communities across Central Wisconsin
04.
Foster a positive business climate that encourages retention, expansion, and attraction of businesses
05.
Implement economic goals and objectives of Central Wisconsin communities
06.
Maintain and promote a diverse mix of employment opportunities
07.
Promote agricultural, commercial, and industrial development
08.
Encourage modern technology and safe, healthy work environments
09.
Support an environmentally sensitive and sustainable business community
METRICS
Our Impact by the Numbers
$22M+
Invested in Central Wisconsin Businesses
200+
Businesses Served
10
Counties Represented
15+ Years
Supporting Economic Growth in Central Wisconsin
ADMINISTRATION
Fund Administration
The CWED Revolving Loan Program is administered by Redevelopment Resources, ensuring professional management and consistent support for borrowers and lending partners throughout the region.
HOW WE HELP
CWED Services and Loan Programs
Flexible financing designed to support growing businesses with capital for equipment, real estate, and working capital needs.
Gap Financing
$75,000 - $1 Million+
Bridge funding that works alongside traditional lenders to make projects possible when additional capital is needed.
Explore Gap FinancingMicro Loan Program
$5,000 - $75,000
Smaller loans that give entrepreneurs and startups quick access to funding for early-stage expenses and opportunities.
Explore Micro LoansStartup Funds
Up to $35,000
Dedicated support for new businesses in their first three years, with mentorship connections and flexible terms to help you launch strong.
Explore Startup FundsLet’s Build Stronger Communities Together
Connect with CWED to explore funding opportunities that support growth, jobs, and lasting impact across Central Wisconsin.