The village of Bonduel has been accepted into the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation’s (WEDC) Connect Communities Program, an initiative that works with communities to advance downtown and historic commercial corridor revitalization efforts.
Bonduel is one of seven communities that will join the program this fall, bringing the total number of participants to 101.
The Connect Communities Program was launched in January 2013. It provides access to resources and training to help communities pursue revitalization and redevelopment efforts. Since its inception, participating communities have reported adding 876 net new businesses, more than 3,385 jobs and $3.9 billion in private investment.
“WEDC congratulates the village of Bonduel for being accepted into this program,” said Missy Hughes, WEDC secretary and CEO. “A vibrant downtown or neighborhood commercial district is key to the overall economic health of the community, and we applaud Bonduel for taking this step toward making its business district even stronger.”
“We are honored to be accepted into the Connect Communities Program,” said Jesse Rankin, Bonduel municipal operations director. “This opportunity comes at a pivotal time as we look to build on recent progress and invest in the long-term vitality of our downtown. Being part of this program will provide us with the tools, training and partnerships necessary to support local businesses, attract new investment and enhance the overall experience for residents and visitors alike. We are excited to take this next step forward for Bonduel.”
Connect Communities participants benefit from a variety of assistance and resources as part of a broad-based network of communities with similar objectives. Program services include:
• An online networking and discussion group to get new ideas from staff and other participating Connect Communities.
• Participation in Main Street workshops focused on a downtown revitalization topic.
• An on-site visit from a member of WEDC’s community development staff to assist in identifying needs and offering assistance to achieve local goals.
• Training for downtown director/program lead, board president or municipal staff.
• Roundtable discussion groups, quarterly webinars and regional training sessions on pertinent topics.
• Access to WEDC’s downtown development online library of resources and tool kits.
• Invitation to the annual Main Street Awards program, plus eligibility to nominate a project for a Connect Communities award.
• Businesses in participating districts are also eligible to access matching loan dollars through the Kiva crowdlending platform and apply for annual makeover and place makeover contests.
In order to be admitted to the program, each applicant community provided an overview of the existing condition of their downtown/commercial district, identified key individuals that will be involved in revitalization efforts and identified near term goals that they hope to achieve within their district.
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