News – Page 2

Community Loan Funded for Sound Decisions

Alison HowenJuly 1, 202505.4K views

Sound Decisions, a longtime automotive and electronics business in Racine County, is expanding its operations with the purchase of four adjacent commercial condominiums in Yorkville. Owner Chris Hilbert—who took over the business from his parents in 2013—will consolidate two companies, Sound Decisions and Echo Sales/MED, under one roof. With financing support from RCEDC and Josh Sopczak at Town Bank, Chris secured a Revolving Loan Fund (RLF) with just 10% down, helping move this expansion forward. Today, the business operates as both a retailer and a regional distributor for top brands like Alpine, Viper, and Metra.

Community Loan Funded for Oak Wine and Spirits

Alison HowenJuly 1, 202505.5K views

Oak Wine & Spirits is bringing a new tasting experience to downtown Waterford—offering self-serve wine and beer stations, premium spirits, and curated small bites in a relaxed, upscale setting. Owners John Palmer and Rebecca Vanwormer, both experienced local business owners, are combining their strengths to create a welcoming destination for both casual visitors and enthusiasts. With support from RCEDC and lender Jay Cashmore at Community State Bank, the pair secured Revolving Loan Fund financing with just 15% down, helping turn their vision into a reality.

Southeast Wisconsin’s Water Advantage: A Key Factor in Site Selection

Alison HowenJune 26, 202505.5K views

Water plays a vital role in site selection, especially for industries that depend on it for manufacturing, cooling, cleaning, or agriculture. In the article “Water Resources: Water & Site Selection” by Business Facilities, water access is identified as a key driver of economic development. In Southeast Wisconsin, this essential resource isn’t just plentiful and high quality—it’s a strategic advantage for businesses planning long-term growth.

Zilber Launches Spec Building in Caledonia Corporate Park

Alison HowenJune 16, 202505.4K views

Zilber Property Group has begun construction on Zilber Industrial 2, a 142,560-square-foot speculative industrial facility at 4300 Carly Avenue in the new Caledonia Corporate Park in Racine County.

The Healing Tree Finds Solid Ground

Alison HowenJune 12, 202504.7K views

Founded in 2016 by experienced massage therapists Nicole (Nikki) Burd and Chantry Kerkman, The Healing Tree in Burlington, Wisconsin, has become a trusted wellness center offering massage therapy, Reiki, acupuncture, and more. What began as a shared vision between two dedicated practitioners has evolved into a collaborative space supporting six independent providers, including Nikki and Chantry.

BizStarts Racine Returns for Its 3rd Cohort This Fall

Alison HowenMay 23, 202501K views

This year-long program has been successful for many years in Milwaukee and now BizStarts will be available in the City of Racine. Join us on September 4, 2025 at Gateway Technical College’s SC Johnson iMET Center in Sturtevant.

Community Loan Funded for Destroy Iron Fitness

Alison HowenMay 21, 202505.5K views

Destroy Iron Fitness, owned by Cornelius Knottnerus (Neil) and Melissa Webster, is expanding its offerings with the help of a Revolving Loan Fund (RLF), which covered 90% of the cost for new equipment. Since taking over in 2024, Neil has led the transformation of the gym into a 24/7 fitness center specializing in bodybuilding and strength training. With unused space ready to be filled and a commitment to creating a premier training environment, the new equipment will help round out their offerings and take the gym to the next level.

Community Loan Funded for Modern Aesthetics Skincare

Alison HowenMay 6, 202505.5K views

RCEDC helped secure a Revolving Loan Fund (RLF) for Modern Aesthetics Skincare to purchase a new MOXI laser, replacing outdated equipment and expanding the clinic’s advanced skincare offerings. Owned and operated by Cala Newholm, a licensed esthetician with over a decade of experience, the clinic opened in 2022 and offers personalized treatments to meet a variety of skin care needs.

BizStarts Racine Builds Momentum with Another Successful Cohort

Alison HowenApril 23, 20250876 views

Local entrepreneurs are gaining essential tools and guidance through BizStarts Racine, a year-long business development program launched by RCEDC. Modeled after the successful BizStarts Milwaukee initiative, the program is designed to help individuals start or grow their businesses through a blend of expert-led education, personalized mentoring, and hands-on consulting.

EVENT: Manufacturers Forum Series

Alison HowenApril 12, 202501K views

In manufacturing, high-performing operators are often promoted into supervisory roles—but technical skills alone don’t guarantee leadership success. As labor challenges grow, poor relationships with frontline supervisors have become a top reason employees leave. In this session, WMEP’s Carol Crawford will share what makes a strong frontline leader, from communication and conflict management to coaching, trust-building, and the key people skills companies need most.