Extension training focuses on supporting entrepreneurs and growing local businesses

On April 29 and 30 UW-Madison Division of Extension hosted a training program called Homegrown in Wood County. The training, held at Mid-State Technical College in Wisconsin Rapids, focused on how participants can build and sustain a thriving “entrepreneurial ecosystem” in Wood County and Central Wisconsin.

An entrepreneurial ecosystem is a network of people, institutions, organizations, and resources that support the development of entrepreneurs and small businesses in a specific area or industry. During the training participants analyzed local and state data and discussed the existing network of support for entrepreneurs in the community and brainstormed strategies to strengthen that network.

Attendees also had the opportunity to learn about business succession planning and strategies/tips to increase succession, and see less businesses close their doors when it is time for retirement or a new venture.

A favorite of the session was hearing from two local entrepreneurs – Michael Hobbs, Cranberry Creamery and Event City Design, and Jen Oswald, Mission Coffee House-Wisconsin Rapids. Both Mike and Jen shared their entrepreneurial journey highlighting lessons learned and successes along the way.  

The training was a great continuation of the work of Wood County’s Entrepreneurial Ecosystem Steering Committee (EESC). This team, which meets monthly, has focused on identifying gaps or missing services in the entrepreneurial ecosystem and addressing how to fill those gaps.

Special thanks to Maggie Cornelius, Todd Barman, Michael Hobbs, and Jen Oswald for presenting at Homegrown. For more information, contact Kayla Rombalski, Wood County Community Development Educator; krombalski@wisc.edu or 715-421-8440.