Building Resilient Rural Economies: Lessons from Sauk County

In 2025, rural economic development is undergoing a significant transformation. Small towns and rural communities are moving away from traditional strategies of attracting large industries and instead focusing on empowering local entrepreneurs, supporting small businesses, and adopting sustainable practices.

Here in Sauk County, the Sauk County Development Corporation SCDC) is at the forefront of these efforts, leading initiatives that prioritize local resilience and long-term growth. Let’s explore the strategies that are shaping the future of rural economies, drawing from national trends and our work in Sauk County.

1. From Recruitment to Growing Local Businesses

For decades, rural economic development centered on industrial recruitment—offering incentives to large companies in hopes of creating jobs. While this approach offered short-term wins, it often failed to provide lasting economic stability.

SCDC's Approach:

At SCDC, we believe the real strength of our community lies in fostering homegrown talent. By supporting local entrepreneurs and small businesses, we’re keeping wealth within the county and building an economy that reflects the character and strengths of our region.

Through initiatives like economic gardening, we’re equipping local businesses with the tools and resources to scale sustainably, creating jobs and new opportunities while maintaining Sauk County’s unique identity.

2. Why “Shop Local” Campaigns Matter

Local businesses are the backbone of any rural community. When dollars are spent locally, they recirculate, funding schools, infrastructure, and essential services.

SCDC in Action:

Our communities' ongoing “Shop Local” campaigns are more than slogans. The Baraboo Area Chamber of Commerce , Reedsburg Chamber Of Commerce , Sauk Prairie Area Chamber of Commerce , and Spring Green Area Chamber of Commerce are all fantastic partners who lead the way for their community businesses—they’re lifelines for our communities. By celebrating local businesses through organizations like the above and events like the State of Sauk and supporting their growth with programs like the new innovation space in Reedsburg and Sauk City, we’re ensuring that small businesses thrive.

These efforts also boost cultural pride, create memorable experiences for residents and visitors, and strengthen our resilience in challenging times.

3. Learning from Success Stories

Across the country, small towns are leveraging their strengths to achieve remarkable outcomes. Examples like Lanesboro, MN, Berea, KY, and Fairfield, IA, inspire us to think creatively and act boldly.

What This Means for the SCDC:

We’re building on these lessons by supporting projects like co-working spaces, housing initiatives, and venture studios. The collaboration with Ramaker | Architecture + Engineering in Sauk City to launch a venture studio is one example of how we’re creating spaces for innovation and collaboration. These projects attract diverse professionals while enhancing our local economy.

4. Sustainability: The Foundation for Resilience

Sustainability isn’t just a buzzword; it’s the cornerstone of rural economic success. Here in Sauk County, sustainability is a guiding principle in everything we do.

Our Commitment:

? Green Practices: We’re actively exploring opportunities like the BDO Zone application, which positions Sauk County as a bioenergy and sustainable agriculture leader.

? Eco-Tourism: With assets like the Farm/Art DTour and natural attractions, as a region, we are fostering tourism that benefits our economy without compromising the environment.

? Workforce Development: Through partnerships with schools and businesses, particularly the Workforce Development Board of South Central Wisconsin and Madison Area Technical College we’re preparing our workforce for the future with training in renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, and more.

Looking Ahead

In Sauk County, we’re building a model for resilient rural economies—nurturing local businesses, championing sustainability, and fostering innovation. This is not just about surviving the future but thriving in it.

How is your community adapting to the changing landscape of rural economic development? Share your thoughts and success stories in the comments below. Let’s learn from each other and work together to build a vibrant, sustainable future for rural America.

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