Click here for a list of investors to-date.
SHAWANO, WI—Shawano County Economic Progress, Inc. (SCEPI) and the Shawano Country Chamber of Commerce announced the official launch of the public phase of fundraising for their joint economic development initiative, Shawano Country Vision 2017. Campaign Co-Chair Dan Miller, Senior Bank Manager, Associated Bank and President of SCEPI, said, "We want to express our sincere appreciation to all those businesses and individuals who have made a commitment thus far." Miller announced the campaign has received 44 total cash pledges and in-kind commitments from corporations, government, local businesses, foundations and individuals totaling $758,220 or nearly 60% percent of the $1.27 million goal. Miller continued, "Today we want to extend an invitation to every business, government entity, non-profit, and caring individuals to become committed partners with us as we steer into the future. Our goal is to elevate our level of resources in order to maintain an unwavering dedication to business attraction, retention and helping existing firms expand. The combined efforts and energy of the Chamber and SCEPI to co-create this long-term development strategy for Shawano Country is nothing less than exciting!"
Fund-raising efforts began in February with presentations and grant applications to larger employers; local, county, and tribal governments and private foundations. Campaign Treasurer Char Larsen, Premier Investment Services, stated the campaign has been quietly gathering support from major investors. "We are very pleased with the progress we have made so far in our fund-raising. A group of our most prominent community leaders have offered early financial commitments to start the ball rolling toward achieving our campaign goal," said Larsen.
Shawano Country Vision 2017 is a five-year economic development plan strategically designed to address various needs of area businesses and communities. The plan's overall goal is to create 1,000 jobs paying an average of $16.06 per hour, by implementing specific action steps in key areas, including business expansion, attraction and recruitment; tourism/retail development and community development. This plan was initiated two years ago by the board of directors of SCEPI and the Chamber to proactively tackle economic challenges including several plant closures, job losses, and lower than average per capita income. According to Steve Sengstock, executive director for SCEPI, Shawano Country Vision 2017 provides a blueprint for growth and prosperity and a stronger economic climate for Shawano and Menominee Counties. "By working together in a collaborative partnership, this strategic, results-oriented, investor-driven, economic development plan will improve our capacity to solve problems and create economic opportunities to improve our quality of life," said Sengstock.
Campaign Co-Chair Jim Feeney, president of Wisconsin Film & Bag and board president of the Shawano Country Chamber of Commerce, is excited about the initiative. "Last year our Company faced a decision to expand in Shawano or develop a facility in another state. Because of the 'business friendly' atmosphere in Shawano and specifically the efforts of SCEPI and the City of Shawano, we elected to expand our operations here. We are investors in this program because we see a vibrant growing community that makes a great place for our employees to live, work and play. As a Co-Chair for this effort and a lead investor we are proud of the work that has been done so far and look forward to the financial participation by the public sector as well."
According to Nancy Smith, executive director for the Shawano Country Chamber of Commerce, Shawano Country Vision 2017 has the potential to significantly impact the area economy. "We estimate 1,000 new higher paying jobs will generate over $22 million in consumer expenditures and will have a positive, direct impact on our retail community," said Smith.
Over the next few months over 200 other local businesses and government entities will be called upon to learn how this project will deliver a significant return on investment over the next five years. These businesses will be asked to consider a five-year commitment as an investment in this ambitious plan. "We need the support of area businesses, organizations and individuals to reach our goal, and we invite everyone to invest in the economic growth of our area with their tax deductible investment in this important project, said Miller. "Your financial assistance is an investment that delivers a real return to your business and our community."
Shawano Country Vision 2017 is the first major joint fundraising campaign held to promote job growth in Shawano and Menominee Counties. The Shawano Country Chamber of Commerce and SCEPI expect to complete this active private-sector solicitation phase by early June and the public sector effort to be complete by December 2012.
For more information contact the Chamber at (715) 524-2139 or chamber@shawano.com.
Click here for the Shawano Country Vision 2017 Details.