The Buzz from WCEDA - upcoming networking events you won't want to miss and much more... |
|
|
WCEDA is your source for all things business - workforce, expansions, location resources, financial connections, legislative advocacy, career awareness with youth, networking events, and initiatives to address county-wide issues like housing. |
|
|
In this email... Upcoming Events l Membership News Workforce News l County Developments Economic Indicators l Other News
Valuable Resources |
| |
A few words from WCEDA's Executive Director, Derek D'Auria ... |
|
| Click on the thumbnail above to expand. |
| Register Now for WCEDA's 1st Annual
Walworth County Pro/Am Culinary Showdown! Sunday, January 26, 2025 • Lake Lawn Resort
[Register] |
Join us for WCEDA's first annual Walworth County Culinary Showdown, featuring teams of Walworth County high school culinary students and professional chefs! |
Taste the creativity as teams present their take on a typical hot dog, deconstructed and brought to us in a whole new way. Each team will also bring a gourmet dish of their choice of encased meat, which could include lamb, beef, chorizo, Italian sausage, pork, etc.
Enjoy the samples, and vote for your favorites!!! $20 Standard Admission $35 VIP Hour |
|
|
| Attention all WCEDA & Elkhorn Area Chamber of Commerce members! You are cordially invited to join us at our annual Member Holiday Party! January 9, 5-8pm
[Register] Drinks, food and merriment provided! Click on the thumbnail for more information. |
|
|
WCEDA's Annual Meeting
presented by Mercyhealth |
Building AI Agility: Human Flourishing in the AI Economy
We are grateful to this year’s Annual Meeting keynote speaker, Todd McLees, for sharing his insights with us on a very important topic. It was an engaging and very thought-provoking presentation.
We are also very grateful to our host, Grand Geneva Resort & Spa. Their dedication and generosity over the years has played an essential role in our ability to continue to offer such a high-class, valuable event. Refer to the following webpage for important links and resources from this year’s event.
2024 Annual Meeting Webpage
Congratulations to our 2024 Award Winners!
David Bretl Community Betterment Award – Sleep In Heavenly Peace
“Grow My Business” Award – Integra |
| |
|
Christmas is not only a season for rejoicing It’s also a season for reflection. ~ Winston Churchill |
|
| ANNOUNCEMENT: Introducing Kareers4Kids!
We want to share that we are rebranding our Inspire program to "Kareers4Kids." While the program's focus remains unchanged, we believe this new name will enhance recognition and better reflect its purpose.
We would like to extend our gratitude to everyone who has supported our mission over the last eight years. We look forward to creating even more career opportunities and experiences for our Walworth County kids in the future!
Learn More about Kareers4Kids |
|
|
Upcoming Kareers4Kids Events |
|
|
|
Walworth County Pro/Am Culinary Showdown! (For more details see the "Upcoming Events" section above) Sunday, January 26, 2025 • Lake Lawn Resort
[Register]
Local, professional chefs and high school culinary students have started planning for our first annual Culinary Showdown! The chefs and students will be meeting multiple times over the course of the next month to brainstorm ideas for their event dishes, test them out and get the final selections ready for the event. This is a wonderful opportunity for our local talent to mentor the next generation and promote high school culinary programs in our County! |
|
|
Craftsman With Character I'm excited to share that we will be launching our inaugural Craftsman with Character program on January 21! This program will bring together three students from Delavan-Darien High School and three students from Elkhorn High School.
CWC is a structured, semester-long course that immerses high school students in skilled trades, featuring 90 minutes of hands-on learning each day. The program aims to cultivate career skills and character through real-world experiences. Students will rotate among six local businesses, and Fridays will include a day of classroom instruction focused on professionalism, purpose, humanity, self-confidence, and dignity.
Section 2 will begin in September of 2025. If you're interested in participating in this program, please feel free to reach out to me. I also hope to expand this program to other schools in our county. |
|
|
Upcoming Made In Walworth County Events |
|
|
| Calling all Made in Walworth County MFG Group Members!
December 11, 2024 SPX Flow • 4-5:15pm Our next MIWC event will take place at SPX in Delavan on December 11 from 4-5:15pm. They will be discussing their successes with the Youth Apprenticeship (YA) program, with a tour to follow.
[RSVP ASAP!] |
|
|
Successful Custom Course! |
In Progress Custom Course! |
| Spanish for Business I
WCEDA's Spanish for Business course is a great way for your supervisors and managers to better communicate with their Spanish speaking teams!
Led by our experienced instructor Joel Espinoza, this tailored program brings the classroom to you.
Option 1: Join a multi-company session.
This is a hybrid course consisting of ten, 90-minute sessions (nine hours online, six in person), that is oriented to basic/entry-level Spanish speakers. Participants who complete the course will receive a completion certificate.
Option 2: Custom Course
Do you have at least 10 participants? We can create a customized program based on your needs, at the basic, intermediate, or advanced level, with a minimum of 12 instructional hours, that can be broken down into multiple sessions.
|
|
|
Leadership Training for Entry-Level and Mid-Level Supervisors & Managers
|
|
|
Fundamentals of Leadership
FKA Fundamentals of Supervision
“We value you and believe in your growth.”
While company training teaches the essentials of the job, pursuing additional skills independently builds expertise, boosts confidence, and sets you apart. Company training beyond how to do the job, also shows dedication and initiative—traits that employees notice and value.
Employees feel more engaged when they see their company investing in their potential, not just their job. This commitment builds trust, increases job satisfaction, and often translates into longer tenure.
By fostering continuous learning, you’re not just strengthening your team’s capabilities—you’re creating a supportive environment where employees can thrive and grow alongside the company.
WCEDA offers The Fundamentals of Leadership training in four modules, that do not need to be taken in any order. Four classes per module, held at Gateway Technical College in Elkhorn, with Liz Oplatka as the instructor.
Contact Susan Smolarek at: 262.215.7254 or Susan@Walworthbusiness.com with any questions you may have. |
| Module II REVISED START DATE
Wednesdays, starting January 15, 2024
Gateway Technical College, Elkhorn Campus
This comprehensive program is designed to equip current and aspiring supervisors with the essential skills and knowledge needed to lead effectively in today’s dynamic work environment. Four weeks, Wednesdays from 8-10am
[Learn More/Register Now] |
|
|
Leadership Training for Executive-Level Leaders
|
|
|
Top Level Leadership
This advanced leadership series isn’t a one-off course. We’re presenting an opportunity to join others and work with an expert in organizational psychology, organizational development and change leadership on building the human side of your business. We know that our local business community is the most technically capable out there. We also know that what prevents us from realizing our greatness has a human face. Contact Susan Smolarek for information how your management team can join in the next session. |
| |
|
Essential Skills Training
|
|
|
Bring Your 'A' Game
Empower your workforce with essential workplace skills, increase employment and promote lifelong success! Bring Your ‘A’ Game is an engaging curriculum for building the seven foundational workplace skills of Work Ethic:
Attendance (Reliability), Attitude (Positivity), Appearance (Professionalism), Ambition (Initiative), Acceptance (Respect), Appreciation (Gratitude), Accountability (Integrity) Six weeks, Tuesdays from 7:30-10am
[Learn More] |
| |
|
About WCEDA's Workforce Housing Program
Over the course of the past three years, housing has become an increasing priority for us (WCEDA) to address. Many counties in the region are facing similar challenges and are in various stages of addressing this issue — an issue that may be the number one barrier for workforce at the moment... Go to WCEDA's Housing Page to learn more.
|
|
|
Where we've been and where we're going... As we close in on the end of another calendar year it is time to take stock of what has been accomplished and what will need to be addressed in the future.
The housing shortage in Walworth County is a pressing issue with significant ripple effects on the local economy, workforce sustainability, and community well-being. Addressing this requires coordinated efforts across multiple sectors. There are key concerns and various steps of action to be considered to move forward successfully to eliminate the housing shortage. Key issues include employment and commuting Challenges, industry impact, and economic leakage... [Read On]
|
|
|
Fun things to do, great causes to support, and resources to make your holidays special.
|
|
|
| Santa Cruise
Begin your magical journey with a walk through the Christmas Tree Festival where kids get to send their wish list directly to Santa. Then, ship off on our Christmas cruise boat, decked out in holiday lights and decorations, for an enchanting tour of holiday lights on the lake. [Learn More] The Christmas Festival
The Christmas Festival has been held in conjunction with the Santa Cruise since its inception. During the festival, the Charities of Christmas decorate themed booths showcasing raffle packages. Attendees can purchase raffle tickets at the festival and distribute them among the booths for a chance to win incredible prizes. [Learn More] |
|
|
|
| EAST TROY EVENTS [Learn More] East Troy Lights Live - Every Friday & Saturday at 7 pm
The Candy Cane Adventure - December 9th - December 31st Disco Ball Dedication Fill the tunnel with disco balls before New Years! Get your name attached to a disco ball of your choice! East Troy Winter Wine Walk - December 13 New Year's Eve Ball Drop - December 31st at 8pm and midnight! |
|
| | WHITEWATER EVENTS
[Learn More] Christmas at Cravath - December 6-January 6
Holiday Market Parade of Lights Lights Display Activities with Santa Chili Cook-Off and Holiday Movie... |
|
|
| EASD School Lunch Angel Fund [Learn More]
The goal of the Elkhorn Area School District Food Service department is to provide nutritious meals to our students, working to improve the diet and overall health of our children. School meals help students sustain the energy they need to be successful in the classroom, however, many families who are experiencing financial difficulties cannot afford to keep money in their student’s lunch account. The School Lunch Angel Fund seeks to provide short-term assistance to families in need by covering negative lunch account balances and ensuring no child goes home hungry.
|
|
|
| Badger High School Presents for Parents
Now through December 16
[Learn More] Presents for Parents is an event after school where students are invited to "shop" for a gift (all items are free to students) for their parents. Click on the thumbnail for more info. |
|
|
| Winterize Yerkes
[Learn More] Facilities Director, Marc, works tirelessly to keep Yerkes in tip-top shape, even during the cold Wisconsin winters. But with an old boiler system used to heat the majority of the building, he spends hours each morning on maintenance alone. Your donation will help Marc tackle much-needed repairs. |
|
|
| World's Tallest Glass Tree
[Learn More]
Friday, December 13, 4-7pm Saturday December 14, 12-7pm Sunday December 15, 12-7pm
World’s Tallest Glass Tree event promotes lifelong family memories, inspiring children and adults alike.This festive, creative celebration of the holiday season takes place the first 2 weekends of Dec. At 4PM on Sunday, Dec. 15, the Tree is topped with a four-and-a-half-foot tall blown glass star to complete the installation. |
|
|
| Lake Geneva - 6th Annual Parade of Trees
[Learn More]
The halls of the Geneva Lake Museum have been thoroughly decked! The 6th annual Parade of Trees has arrived to delight visitors through January 5th, 2025.
|
|
|
| Consider donating to those in need this holiday season! Little Free Pantry / Blessings Box Walworth County
[Learn More] Locations: 6 in Elkhorn 4 in Delavan 3 in Whitewater 3 in Lake Geneva |
|
|
| WEDA Holiday Meetup
[Learn More]
WEDA's Young Professionals in Economic Development (YPEN) group aims to bring together early-career individuals interested in economic development to foster networking, professional growth, and community engagement, we are focused on attracting and retaining young talent in Wisconsin by providing opportunities to participate in initiatives that shape the local economy and contribute to its future development. So what could be better than a Holiday (Virtual) Meetup! The VIRTUAL event will be fun-filled, a drop in format where you can join us when convenient for you.
|
|
|
| Advia Credit Union Holiday Loan
Make your holidays shine brighter with our limited-time Holiday Loan. Travel, shop or decorate, all without making payments for the first 90 days! Unwrap the details here: https://bit.ly/3OzmMxh
|
|
|
| Mercyhealth Development Foundation Create a life-changing impact by supporting the Mercyhealth Development Foundation!
Your generosity helps families of children with autism, cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy, homeless families at House of Mercy Homeless Center, students pursuing scholarships, loved ones of hospice patients. [Learn More]
|
|
|
| Associated Bank Early Pay
Just found that perfect gift, but payday’s still a couple of days away? You’ve got this—with Associated Bank’s Early Pay. Learn how to get the most out of this great free perk. http://spr.ly/6180slDie |
|
|
| Delavan Family Pajama & Game Night
December 13 & 14 [Learn More]
Slip into your WARM Flannel PJs and come over to Pepperoni Pub. Enjoy a night of holiday cheer and fun!
|
|
|
| Christmas in the Country at Grand Geneva Resort & Spa Brunch with Santa, Igloo Experience, Gingerbread House Walk, Holiday Tour of Lights, Elf Mail Run... [Learn More] |
|
|
| Holidays at the Lake at The Abbey Resort
Santa's Landing at The Abbey, Murder Mystery Dinner: The Most Wonderful Crime of the Year, Brunch With Santa... [Learn More] |
|
|
| Lake Lawn Resort
Christmas Eve Dinner at 1878 on the Lake, A Grand Yuletide Christmas Day Brunch, New Dueling Pianos Show [Learn More] |
|
|
| Destination Geneva National
Pop-up Christmas bar - Santa's Lounge, Snow Globes, Holiday Feast To-Go, Hunt Club To-Go, Rockin' New Year's Eve [Learn More] |
|
|
| DD Tech's Rob Prager featured in Teaching Today
His dedication and hard work in the DDSD Manufacturing Program are making a real impact, and this recognition is so well-deserved. [Read the article] |
|
|
| East Troy Middle School students organize fundraiser to support Music and Memory program
On November 24th, Leaders in Training students at ETMS wrapped up their Trimester-long project with a fantastic success! Mikah H., Parker M., Samantha F., and Levi B. have been hard at work since September organizing a 50/50 raffle fundraiser to support the Music and Memory program in our local community.
[Read On] |
|
|
| DOT Annual Inspector Workshops December 16
Hands-on training to help you gain a comprehensive understanding of what’s required to become a DOT Annual Inspector. Whether you're looking to enhance your skills or ensure compliance, this workshop is a great opportunity!
[Learn More]
|
|
|
| Now Hiring: WAFC Manager Whitewater Aquatic and Fitness Center [Learn More] |
|
|
| Now Hiring: Advanced Practice Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Walworth County Health & Human Services [Learn More] |
|
|
| Now Hiring: IT Director
Walworth County
[Learn More]
|
|
|
Broadband Assessment
Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation is beginning a regional broadband assessment in an effort to bring broadband to more Wisconsinites. The first step in the process is to conduct speed testing across the region. To take the test, residents and businesses simply need to visit, from their home or work location. It will only take a few moments and personal information is always protected and never shared. [Take the Test]
|
|
|
Your Voice, Your Ride!
Walworth County wants to hear from you about our local transportation services! Help us by taking a quick 5-minute survey. Plus, you can enter to win a $25 Kwik Trip gift card! Access the survey at https://bit.ly/WalCoTransportation to share your input and help shape the future of county transit. |
|
|
To read more about each indicator, visit the newsletter section of our website here. |
|
|
According to the BLS current population survey (CPS), the unemployment rate for Wisconsin rose 0.1 percentage points in November 2023 to 3.3%. The state unemployment rate was 0.4 percentage points lower than the... |
|
10-2 Year Treasury Yield Spread is at 0.05%, compared to 0.02% the previous market day and -0.44% last year. This is lower than the long term average of 0.86%. The 10-2 Treasury Yield Spread is the difference... |
| New orders for manufactured durable goods in the US rose by 0.2% over a month to $286.6 billion in October 2024, following a revised 0.4% fall in the prior month and missing market forecasts of a 0.5% growth. Transportation equipment,... |
| Average Crude Oil Spot Price is at a current level of 72.29, down from 73.97 last month and down from 81.35 one year ago. This is a change of -2.27% from last month and -11.14% from one year ago. The Average Crude Oil Spot Price... |
|
|
| SBA Lender Match
Get $500 to $5.5 million to help you grow your business! SBA-backed loans range from small to large and can be used for most business purposes, including long-term fixed assets and operating capital. Connect with an SBA-approved lender: https://www.sba.gov/lendermatch
|
|
| | WWBIC New Resources & Partners
WWBIC is offering more diverse trainings and events now than ever before! Fill out their updated Client/Business Information form by clicking the link below to make sure that you will be notified once any grants, networking events and more are available!
[Form] |
|
|
|
Property Values and Taxes DataTool
This datatool explores key trends in statewide property values and tax levies, which are important indicators of the state's economic health, the cost borne by taxpayers, and the finances of its local governments. In this streamlined interactive format, users can view separate analyses of southeast Wisconsin and Dane County data, or explore the statewide data themselves, filtering by municipality or county to easily create custom reports.
Check out the tool |
|
|
Small Business Development Grant (SBDG)
The Small Business Development Grant (SBDG) Program will offer financial incentives for communities and organizations to develop innovative programs that directly support small businesses and small business creation. [Learn More] |
|
|
Wisconsin Green Innovation Fund
When more Wisconsinites can participate in our state’s clean energy transition, we’ll reach our environmental and energy independence goals faster. That’s where the Green Innovation Fund comes in. The Green Innovation Fund leverages public and private funds to invest in strategic energy efficiency and renewable energy projects that benefit traditionally underserved businesses, residents, and communities across Wisconsin. By facilitating the widespread adoption of clean energy technologies, the Fund will ultimately improve overall quality of life in our state. [Learn More]
|
|
|
| RelyLocal
The national economy depends heavily on the health of local economies, and the local economy depends on the health of the local businesses. Local businesses not only contribute to the local economy, but are the foundation of a healthy community overall. Our goal? To develop strategies to support local businesses (across the country) by Developing new solutions to support local businesses, creating local campaigns to revitalize local communities, and putting America back to work. [Learn More]
|
|
|
| Commercial Property Assessed Clean Energy (C-PACE)
C-PACE is a property tax-assessment financing mechanism for energy & water
efficiency and renewable energy improvements to commercial properties. Benefits include: finance up to 100% of hard + soft costs, fixed rate, long-term: 20 – 30 years, tenants share cost & savings, transfers to new owner upon sale, potential off-balance sheet treatment, reduce waste & improve experience. [Learn More - PDF, Webpage]
|
|
|
| WCEDA Loan Program
Are you having trouble getting a loan? Are your revenues under $1 million? WCEDA may be able to HELP. We have a loan program through the USDA for small businesses called the Hometown Entrepreneur Loan Program (HELP) that aims to help small business access capital. Many times we can work with banks or other programs like SBA or WHEDA to make a loan work for companies.
[APPLICATION]
[ADDITIONAL FUNDING SOURCES] [CONTACT WCEDA]
|
|
|
|
