Building on Three Decades of Craftsmanship
Community Loan Helps Preserve Distinctive Woodwork's Racine Legacy
City of Racine, WI – For more than 30 years, Distinctive Woodwork has provided custom woodworking solutions for homes and businesses throughout Southeast Wisconsin. From handcrafted cabinetry and architectural millwork to office furnishings, display cases, and restoration work, the Racine company has earned a reputation for quality craftsmanship since Dwight and Barb Pedersen established it in 1994.
When the Pedersens decided to retire, Joshua Ziev saw an opportunity to carry on the company’s legacy. A graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy with a master’s degree in Finance from Johns Hopkins University, Ziev brings a strong background in leadership, operations, and business management. His wife, Michelle, has extensive project management experience from both her military service and career in construction management.
To make the business and real estate purchase possible, Racine County Economic Development Corporation (RCEDC) partnered with Josh Sopczak of Business Banking at Town Bank to provide a Community Loan equal to 90% of the borrower’s needs, thereby reducing the down payment to 10%.
For businesses planning to purchase a building or equipment, transition ownership, or construct or renovate a building, one of RCEDC’s loan programs can help. Businesses benefit from the 10% down payment to preserve cash for operations, and RCEDC’s fixed, lower-interest rates reduce the borrower’s monthly repayments. Anyone interested in learning more about the grants, loans, and incentives should contact RCEDC today.