Financial Resource

Partnership Drives New Saputo Facility in Caledonia

Alison HowenAugust 20, 202504.8K views

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.

Community Loan Funded for DW Coffee

Alison HowenJuly 11, 202505.5K views

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.

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, 202505.4K 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.

The Healing Tree Finds Solid Ground

Alison HowenJune 12, 202504.6K 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, 202505.4K 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, 202505.4K 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.

Community Loan Funded for The Compassionate Corner

Alison HowenMarch 24, 202505.4K views

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 Lays the Groundwork for Growth

Alison HowenMarch 18, 202504.7K views

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.