Community Loans

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

The RCEDC team really worked hard to come up with the best solutions for both projects. They are great at keeping everyone on track and making sure that there are no surprises at the closing. The client was very happy with the results.

After a distinguished 30+ year career in machining and technical services, Victor (Vic) DeMeyer is embarking on a new chapter as the owner of Reyemed Technical Services (RTS) in Burlington. Specializing in precision CNC manufacturing, solid modeling design, and reverse engineering, RTS has state-of-the-art machinery and software to serve area manufacturers.

Lisa Rivers embarked on her entrepreneurial journey in 2022 to share her passion for preparing homemade food with others. Inspired by her childhood love of baking with an Easy Bake Oven, Lisa perfected her skills over the years by baking and cooking for family, friends, and co-workers. As her customer base grew, Lisa decided it was time to secure a fixed location for her business.