Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Frequently Asked Questions

What differentiates Grow North from county or other local economic development entities?

As a regional economic development corporation, Grow North focuses on initiatives that will improve the overall business climate in the region. Grow North seeks solutions to issues that are common to the entire region, such as workforce development, technology infrastructure, transportation and healthcare to name a few examples. This is done through careful consideration of what local economic development organizations are doing, with the goal being to collaborate, and never duplicate, services. Through collaboration, regional economic development and local economic development can, and does, provide different dimensions to improving the overall economy.

Why is Grow North organized as a 501(c)(6) non for profit corporation?

Quite simply this legal designation gives the organization the ability to lobby and advocate for solutions that benefit the entire region.

What initiatives is Grow North currently working on?

The main initiatives are broadband expansion, forestry and wood products, workforce development, and capacity building. Additional focus areas are preserving and improving the quality and frequency of rail service through the Northwoods Railroad Commission, providing leadership in the area of sustainable forestry management through the CNNF Consortium and Wood Products Initiative, developing the brand and image of the Northwoods, and coordination on statewide economic development initiatives through partnership with the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation (WEDC) and collaboration with the eight other regional economic development corporations.

How is the Board of Directors organized and what areas of focus is Grow North concentrating on?

The board is comprised of both public and private sector leaders, including representation from all eight county economic development organizations, elected officials, at-large members from the private sector, and many support organizations serving the region.  Specific board positions are designated for representation in the following areas: County EDC Representatives, County Board Representatives, Tribal Representatives, and Other / At-Large Representatives.

When and where are the monthly meetings?

Monthly Board of Director meetings are held at Nicolet College in Rhinelander and at other locations throughout the region on the first Friday of the month unless there is a holiday or special event that Grow North is attending.