According to a recent analysis by the Badger Institute, Racine County experienced the highest rate of new construction in Wisconsin for 2024—posting a 4.83% increase in property value from net new construction (after accounting for demolitions). This growth rate is nearly three times the statewide average of 1.65% and almost double that of the next-highest county, Adams, which came in at 2.94%.
Microsoft recently committed to investing heavily in building a data center in the Village of Mount Pleasant in Racine County, Wisconsin. Here are the latest updates.
The Village of Sturtevant (The Village), in collaboration with Racine County Economic Development Corporation (RCEDC) is pleased to announce support for Grand Appliance’s upcoming facility expansion in Sturtevant. Since relocating to Sturtevant in 2017, Grand Appliance has invested in approximately 11.23 acres, generating an assessed value of $8,040,400. The company’s new expansion project includes a 48,000-square-foot addition to its current facility, part of a larger 137,000-square-foot building. With a total investment of $4.5 million, the expansion is projected to create 15 new jobs over the next three years, offering an average salary of $55,000.
Southeast Wisconsin is gaining national recognition for its strong economy and skilled workforce as traditional industries like manufacturing join emerging sectors such as AI, clean energy, and biohealth. Reports like “Wisconsin: Capturing More Than a Moment” highlight the region’s appeal to global corporations and startups due to its business climate, tax incentives, and access to talent. Major investments, such as Microsoft’s $3.3 billion data center in Mount Pleasant, will create hundreds of jobs and boost demand for technical talent.
Kenosha, WI – The Southeast Wisconsin Pitch Perfect competition will spotlight the region’s top entrepreneurial talent on November 12, 2025, at the newly opened Kenosha Innovation Center (KIC). This event is a collaborative effort by the economic development organizations of Kenosha, Racine, and Walworth counties to elevate and invest in promising startups shaping Wisconsin’s innovation economy.
Saputo Cheese USA Inc., one of the largest dairy processors in the world, has expanded its footprint in Wisconsin with the opening of a new 311,000-square-foot cold storage and distribution facility in Caledonia Corporate Park. The $59 million investment will create 160 new jobs over the next three years, strengthening Saputo’s operations in the Midwest. Earlier this summer, RCEDC joined Saputo leadership, project partners, and community leaders for a grand opening and ribbon-cutting ceremony.
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 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.
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.
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.