Programs Update

WEDC envisions an economy for all where every Wisconsinite has the opportunity to thrive. Through community grant programs and business tax credits, WEDC supports the success of municipalities and businesses across the State.

During the last fiscal year, the Idle Sites Redevelopment Grant (ISR) provided funding to transform the vacant Vesper School into senior apartments. Funding is available again this fiscal year. The ISR program offers funding at a 3:1 or 1:1 ratio for the redevelopment of large former industrial and institutional sites throughout Wisconsin. The program has been modified, reducing the size requirement for former commercial parcels from 10 acres to 4 acres. This requirement can be further reduced to 2 acres if the site is in an Economically Distressed community or Opportunity Zone. In the Centergy region, only Adams County is considered economically distressed.

The Community Development Investment Grant supports projects in established downtown areas, focusing on transformative initiatives that enhance vitality and commercial activity. Grant funds are provided at a 1:1 or 3:1 ratio depending on the location and future use of the property. New for FY2025 projects in designated Main Street Districts – such as the Wausau River District, Tomahawk Main Street, and Mainstreet Marshfield – are eligible for the 1:1 match. Last year, the City of Tomahawk obtained a grant to restore a vacant blighted historic building in their downtown, converting it into commercial office space with two second-story apartments.

The Community Development Investment Grant Vibrant Spaces Grant is back! The Vibrant Spaces Grant funds the transformation of underutilized areas into valuable community assets. During the last grant cycle projects were funded in Mosinee, Spencer, and the Town of Rome. Applications will be available on September 16th, with an informative webinar scheduled for September 13th.

Also new for this fiscal year, is the Small Business Development Pilot Grant. This grant provides funding for community economic development agencies and municipalities to develop economic development programs to assist small businesses. Funds cannot be used for administrative costs and need to be passed directly to small businesses.

Additionally, the Business Development Tax program continues to tax credits to businesses locating or expanding in Wisconsin. As of January 1, 2025, there is no longer a job creation component and projects can be evaluated on capital investment in the State.

Please note, these programs are highly competitive.

To determine project eligibility, please contact Melinda Osterberg ([email protected]) early in project discussions.

   Melinda Osterberg

    Angel Laidlaw

Centergy is a proud partner with the Wisconsin Economic Development Corp. in driving economic development in Central Wisconsin. Please contact Angel and/or Melinda on projects and opportunities in the region. 

View all WEDC Programs – wedc.org/programs/