Posted on January 05, 2026

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Village of Mishicot Welcomed into WEDC’s Downtown Revitalization Program

Mishicot, WI. January 5, 2026 — The Village of Mishicot has been accepted into the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation (WEDC)’s Connect Communities Program, an initiative that works with communities to advance downtown and historic commercial corridor revitalization efforts. Mishicot is one of nine communities that will join the program, bringing the total number of participants to an even one hundred.

The new Connect Communities participants are:

•City of Brodhead (Green County)

•City of Richland Center (Richland County)

•City of River Falls (Pierce County)

•Hurley Chamber of Commerce (Iron County)

•Thrive on Five (Antigo, Langlade County)

•Village of De Soto (Vernon County)

•Village of Mishicot (Manitowoc County)

•Village of Random Lake (Sheboygan County)

•Village of Williams Bay (Walworth County)

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 Mishicot for being accepted into this program,” said Sam Rikkers, deputy secretary and COO of WEDC. “A vibrant downtown or neighborhood commercial district is key to the overall economic health of the community, and we applaud Mishicot for taking this step toward making its business district even stronger.”

“Connect Communities gives Mishicot the tools and partnerships we need to advance priority projects and build a strong, sustainable future for our village,” said Bernie Samz, Village President.

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 who will be involved in revitalization efforts, and identified near term goals that they hope to achieve within their district.

“Assisting Mishicot with its Connect Communities application reflects Progress Lakeshore’s commitment to helping local communities access state resources that strengthen economic vitality across Manitowoc County,” said Jamie Zastrow, Executive Director of Progress Lakeshore, Inc.

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About WEDC’s Downtown Revitalization Initiatives The Wisconsin Main Street Program and Connect Communities Program are the two downtown revitalization initiatives overseen by WEDC. The programs provide support and training for communities and organizations dedicated to downtown revitalization efforts. The Makeover programs are just one example of many programs designed to foster business and community engagement and showcase the businesses that bring life to downtown districts.

About the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation The Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation (WEDC) leads economic development efforts for the state by advancing and maximizing opportunities in Wisconsin for businesses, communities and people to thrive in a globally competitive environment. Working with more than 600 regional and local partners, WEDC develops and delivers solutions representative of a highly responsive and coordinated economic development network. Visit wedc.org or follow WEDC on Twitter @WEDCNews to learn more.