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.
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.
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.
RCEDC helped secure a Revolving Loan Fund (RLF) for Modern Aesthetics Skincare to purchase a new MOXI laser, replacing outdated equipment and expanding the clinic’s advanced skincare offerings.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.
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.
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.
The NEW Continuous Improvement Roundtable (CIRT) is a collaboration between RAMAC and RCEDC. Designed for managers and leads in manufacturing who are responsible for driving continuous improvement and quality. The Continuous Improvement Roundtable encourages learning and best practice sharing among Racine County’s manufacturing companies. The 6-month series meets the 3rd Thursday of the month from June to November.
I worked with BLP to secure an RLF loan and structured a deal with just 10% down. BLP and I worked seamlessly to make it happen.
Save the date for the KABA & RCEDC Summer Intern Mixer! This event is a great opportunity for local interns and new hires to connect, hear from young professionals, and explore all that Racine and Kenosha have to offer — all while enjoying a summer evening at Petrifying Springs Park.
Starline Roofing, LLC is reaching new heights with the recent acquisition of a commercial property in the Town of Norway, marking a significant milestone in the company’s continued growth. With plans to develop the site into a multi-purpose commercial space, the property will house rental units, storage solutions, and an expanded hub for Starline Roofing’s operations.