Sauk Prairie has been welcomed into WEDC's downtown revitalization program
For Immediate Release: May 21, 2025
Contact: Tywana German | executivedirector@saukprairie.com
The Sauk Prairie community has been welcomed into WEDC’s downtown revitalization program.
Sauk Prairie, WI. 5/21/2025 – The Sauk Prairie community 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.
Sauk Prairie is one of seven communities that will join the program this fall, bringing the total number of participants to 101.
The new Connect Communities participants are:
- Sauk Prairie (Sauk County)
- Durand (Pepin County)
- Kaukauna (Outagamie County)
- Marketplace BID 32 (Milwaukee County)-returning program participant
- Bonduel (Shawano County)
- Cumberland (Barron County) – returning program participant
- Uptown Crossing BID 16 (Milwaukee 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 Sauk Prairie for being accepted into this program,” said Missy Hughes, secretary and CEO of WEDC. “A vibrant downtown or neighborhood commercial district is key to the overall economic health of the community, and we applaud Sauk Prairie for taking this step toward making its business district even stronger.”
Chamber Executive Director, Tywana German, shared “We are honored to be accepted into the Wisconsin Connect Communities Programs. This opportunity represents a powerful step forward in our collective vision for revitalizing the downtown business corridor. Through a collaborative effort between the Sauk Prairie Area Chamber of Commerce, the Village of Sauk City, and the Village of Prairie du Sac, we are excited to enhance the aesthetic appeal of our shared downtown, elevate the stories of our local businesses, and drive meaningful economic growth. With support from WEDC and access to vital resources and training, we are confident this initiative will not only attract more visitors and investment but also strengthen the sense of place that defines our vibrant, connected communities.”
- 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 toolkits.
- 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.
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.
###
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.
