EVENT: Manufacturers Forum Series
Explore how AI can safely and affordably be integrated into your manufacturing processes. This session includes expert-led training, a tour of Gateway Technical College’s iMET Center, and light breakfast pastries.
Explore how AI can safely and affordably be integrated into your manufacturing processes. This session includes expert-led training, a tour of Gateway Technical College’s iMET Center, and light breakfast pastries.
With a new baby at home and his wife by his side, Elijah LaFountain was drawn to the county’s strong sense of community and family-friendly atmosphere that would provide a safe, nurturing environment for his growing family.
DW Coffee LLC is expanding from its Rochester location into Wind Lake with the purchase of real estate and equipment at 7910 S Loomis Rd. Owner Leslie Kinsey, who launched the business in 2021, will continue overseeing operations with support from her husband, Shawn. With help from lender Jay Cashmore at Community State Bank and RCEDC, funding was secured through the Revolving Loan Fund (RLF), making the new location—with drive-thru service—possible.
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.
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.
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.
Brittany’s journey shows how Racine County’s supportive network helps small businesses—and families—take root and thrive.
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.