Seven Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation (WEDC) grants will allow cooperatives or groups considering the model to set themselves up for success by studying all aspects of their businesses before making major investments.
“Cooperatives can be an especially valuable tool for rural Wisconsin allowing residents to get the goods and services they need but that the market doesn’t otherwise supply,” said Missy Hughes, WEDC secretary and CEO. “The cooperative model also allows producers and workers to band together to create new opportunities for their businesses. These grants will allow businesses and communities, both rural and urban, to thoroughly research and plan so that these cooperatives thrive.”
The Targeted Industry Project grants will be assisting cooperatives aiming to provide affordable housing, build a grocery store, help farmers with meat processing and more. The grants, made in consultation with the Cooperative Network, pay for things such as consultant fees and feasibility studies that can help cooperatives decide future plans.
“Cooperative Network applauds the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation’s recognition of the success the cooperative business model has long demonstrated in advancing economic opportunities,” said Daniel Smith, President and CEO, Cooperative Network. “These grants reflect the broad impact cooperatives have in our state. Cooperative Network is proud to assist groups to study, create, and manage cooperatives as a response to emerging economic and social needs.”