Envision Greater Fond du Lac unveils new five-year strategic economic development plan

The Fond du Lac City Council meeting on July 9, 2025, featured an annual update from Envision Greater Fond du Lac, presented by President and CEO Sadie Howell. The organization has recently completed a three-year strategic plan and is set to launch a new five-year plan aimed at strengthening the local economy.

Howell highlighted three main goals of the new strategic plan, focusing on building a more resilient economy for Fond du Lac County. She emphasized the importance of communication through various newsletters and reports that keep local officials informed about economic developments.

A significant portion of the presentation was dedicated to economic development initiatives. Howell noted that the organization has been actively engaging with local businesses through a Business Retention and Expansion (BRE) program, which has already completed 55 assessments this year. This program aims to monitor the health of businesses and identify opportunities for growth.

The entrepreneurship sector, led by Zach Beasom, has also been active, assisting 85 entrepreneurs and small businesses with technical support. A new initiative, Ignite Bridal, will provide funding and a business accelerator program for selected applicants, with prizes totaling $50,000.

Howell discussed the importance of workforce development, noting Fond du Lac's high concentration of engineers, second only to Palo Alto, California. She emphasized the need for continued collaboration with educational institutions to ensure a skilled workforce.

The meeting also touched on the challenges faced by employers in the current job market. Howell reported a slowdown in job demand, with many companies now at full employment. However, she acknowledged a persistent skills shortage in specific sectors, particularly manufacturing, and highlighted the role of local educational institutions in addressing this gap.

In conclusion, Howell's presentation underscored the ongoing efforts of Envision Greater Fond du Lac to foster economic growth and workforce development in the region, while also addressing the evolving challenges in the job market. The council expressed appreciation for the update and the initiatives being undertaken to support local businesses and the community.