FCEDC Annual Report 2011

Improving the economic well-being of the residents and

businesses of Fond du Lac County.

2011 Annual Report

Our vision for Fond du Lac County

Our customers

The direct customers of FCEDC services include the existing businesses of Fond du Lac County, entrepreneurs, prospective businesses and those who serve them as well as

local governments and economic development organizations. Our ultimate customers are the citizens and communities of Fond du Lac County.

Our standards

FCEDC is the only accredited economic development organization (AEDO) in the State of Wisconsin and is one of only about 30 such accredited organizations nationally.

Entities that become accredited are recognized as organizations of excellence in the field of economic development. During the AEDO process,

organizations receive critical evaluation and peer mentoring by certified professionals concerning internal and external operations. AEDO status signifies a distinguished achievement for an economic development organization.

About FCEDC

Cost of printing kindly provided, in part, by: EP-Direct, www.ep-directprinting.com

•Strong, stable, diversified economy; •Competitive, dynamic workforce;•Comprehensive and proactive infrastructure; •Environmentally conscious development;•Flexible, prepared community partnerships; •Above-average economic well-being of citizens and businesses; and •Regional cooperation.

Our Mission: To improve the economic well-being of the businesses, communities, and residents of the county.

Note about this report design:

The 2011 Annual Report has common features of FCEDC’s newly designed website at www.fcedc.com. Read our new blog on trends and updates relative to Fond du Lac County. Click our property search

database to find your business site or to run a demographic report. Request space in our business accelerator, The Center, or easily schedule an appointment with one of our

business strategists. Our new site is better organized for our users. If you have any comments or questions, please send them to [email protected].

Cover photos provided by:Sirna Productions

In February FCEDC opened a business accelerator, The Center for Enterprise Development (The Center). With its high-end technology, research capabilities, and creative and comfortable spaces, The Center is ideal for the entrepreneur who wants to

expand an innovative idea, hold brainstorming and training sessions, or conduct meetings in a professional environment. The Center remains the only such facility created and operated by an economic development organization in Wisconsin.

To create a diverse yet balanced industry mix in Fond du Lac County,

FCEDC released an in-depth industry and gap analysis on targeted industries. The project became a case study for other economic development organizations in the state as well as nationally. To further showcase the industries, FCEDC produced videos for the seven targeted industries. The videos featured 21 innovative businesses in Fond du Lac County and were introduced at FCEDC’s 22nd Annual Evening in March. The videos were prominently featured in FCEDC’s attraction marketing campaign, Innovation at Work.

Reaching out to businesses to help take them to the next level was the focus of an award-winning nine-month campaign, It’s growing season. Over 300 businesses received direct mail packages and e-blasts promoting FCEDC’s business intelligence services and providing tips on how to grow their companies. Time and resources are limited for some small businesses, making it difficult to access information on new markets, industry trends or competitors. FCEDC offers customized market research with consulting aimed at helping companies pursue growth with confidence.

In fall, FCEDC launched a local edition of a free, powerful online database to search commercial properties. Locate Here, connects our communities and commercial real estate brokers with companies trying to identify the best location to start-up, expand, or relocate in Fond du Lac County. This property database delivers economic development services and business intelligence in real-time, an essential tool in today’s information economy. Please read more about Locate Here on page 13 of this report.

The FCEDC team was recognized for its efforts and drive for excellence and innovation when the International Economic Development Council (IEDC) named FCEDC a high-performing economic development organization. Specifically, FCEDC’s program which ties per capita income and earnings per worker to those businesses who use a local revolving loan fund was recognized. Our highly effective board and committees were also noted by IEDC. On the state level, FCEDC received the gold winner award in the Best Economic Development Agency category at Corporate Report Wisconsin’s 7th annual Best of Wisconsin Business Awards in June.

The number of clients served in 2011 increased 7% from 2010. This upward trend in the use of our client consultative and research services was great news and may be attributed to a recovering economy and a result of increased marketing efforts of our services.

After nearly seven years, FCEDC president Brenda Hicks-Sorensen, CEcD accepted a position as vice president of economic and community development with Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation (WEDC). During her tenure, she helped make FCEDC a high-performing economic development organization. FCEDC staff and Board of Directors thanks Brenda for her dedication, knowledge and vision that helped to make the organization successful.

FCEDC also transitioned planning cycles. FCEDC completed its final year of a five-year Strategic Plan (2007-2011). To continue its drive for excellence, a new three-year Strategic Plan for 2012-2014 was drafted. FCEDC shortened the time frame due to the speed and complexity of the business climate. Survey results from over 600 clients, community partners and investors were used as a catalyst for our future goals.

The FCEDC team embraced the challenges of transitions and continued to deliver first-rate services to clients and our communities. We want to thank all our valued investors who believe in the organization’s mission of improving the economic well-being of Fond du Lac County and who strongly support our services. The organization will continue to strive for excellence and we look forward to implementing the new strategic plan with our new president.

Sincerely,

John Valek, RB Royal Industries, 2011 FCEDC Chair, Board of Directors

State of the Organization

“This upward trend in the use of our client consultative and research services was great news and may be attributed to a recovering economy and a result of increased marketing efforts of our services.”

-John Valek2011 FCEDC Chair, Board of Directors

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2011 was a year of innovative services, heartfelt goodbyes and transition.

2011 Board of Directors

John Valek, RB Royal Industries, ChairBob Poch, Keller, Inc., Vice Chair

*Sandy Breth, TreasurerJoan Karsten, Century 21 of Ripon, Secretary*Russ Kamphuis, Bank of Oakfield, Past Chair

Zak Bloom, Waupun UtilitiesGary Boyke, Vir-Clar Farms

Allen Buechel, Fond du Lac CountyTodd Diedrich, Capelle Bros. & Diedrich, Inc.

Martin F. Farrell, Ph.D., Ripon College/County Board of Supervisors*Jim Flood, Holiday Chrysler Dodge Jeep

JoAnn Hall, Moraine Park Technical CollegeTom Herre, City of Fond du Lac

Steve Holz, National Exchange Bank & Trust*Richard Kleinfeldt, Giddings & Lewis, retired

Kathy Leifer, Alliant EnergyJoseph R. Reitemeier, C.C.E., Fond du Lac Area Association of Commerce

*Terry Schleif, Hometown BankMike Shedivy, Mercury Marine

Daniel Vande Zande, Vande Zande & Kaufman, LLPMike Wisnefske, West Bend Machine Works, Inc.

Dennis Yunk, Agnesian HealthCare* indicates past chair

Note: FCEDC would like to recognize the outstanding contributions of outgoing board members Todd Diedrich (2005 - 2011) and Zak Bloom (2011)

FCEDC would like to also welcome new board member Frank Villaire, Sadoff & Rudoy Industries, who joined the board on January 1st, 2012.

Executive Committee

John Valek, ChairBob Poch, Vice Chair

Sandy Breth, TreasurerJoan Karsten, Secretary

Russ Kamphuis, Immediate Past ChairAllen Buechel, Member at Large

Tom Herre, Member at Large

Note: Brenda Hicks-Sorensen, CEcD, FCEDC President, resigned in June 2011.

The International Economic Development Council highlights the effectiveness of our board of directors.

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2011 Committees

Investor Relations* Todd Diedrich, Capelle Bros. & Diedrich, Inc.* Mike Shedivy, Mercury MarineTony Ferdinand, Haentze Floral Company, Inc.Jim Flood, Holiday Chrysler Dodge JeepDave Gerritson, Fox Valley Savings BankRuss Kamphuis, Bank of OakfieldDick Kleinfeldt, Giddings & Lewis, retiredMatt Lueptow, M & I BankJohn Valek, RB Royal Industries

Personnel and Compensation* Mike Wisnefske, West Bend Machine Works, Inc.Jim Hubbard, Mercury Marine, retiredDennis Yunk, Agnesian HealthCare

Revolving Loan Fund* Dan Vande Zande, Vande Zande & Kaufman, LLPMatt Lueptow, M & I BankTim McFarlane, Hometown BankHerb Ottery, Ottery Transportation, Inc.Wayne Rollin, City of Fond du Lac**Rich Scheuerman, Alto Dairy **Ann Freund, Huberty & AssociatesMike Wisnefske, West Bend Machine Works, Inc.

Board Development* Russ Kamphuis, Bank of OakfieldJohn Valek, RB Royal IndustriesJim Flood, Holiday Chrysler Dodge JeepDick Kleinfeldt, Giddings & Lewis, retiredKathy Leifer, Alliant Energy

2011 StaffJoe Becker, CPA, EDFP, Director of Business Finance

Jacqui Corsi, Marketing SpecialistJoAnn Giese-Kent, Research Specialist

Melissa Hunt, EDFP, Community Development SpecialistAnnette Murray, Administrative Assistant

Owen Rock, EDFP, Business Strategist

Note: Brenda Hicks-Sorensen, CEcD, President, and Brett Traver, Business Strategist, left the organization in 2011. Kristen Fish, CEcD, served as Interim President during the transition.

http://www.facebook.com/fcedc

Join Fond du Lac County Economic Development Corporation or connect to any of the staff pages

http://www.youtube.com/FondduLacCountyEDC

Twitter @ FdLCountyEDC

* Indicates chair ** Rich Scheuerman resigned from the Committee and Ann Freund joined the Committee in March.

In addition to the Executive Committee, current standing committees are as follows:

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How you can reach us:Check out our newly designed website at www.fcedc.com.

Finding success in 2011

Basic American Medical Products expands facility

To house a new, state of the art fiber optic laser tube cutting system, Basic American Medical Products, a GF Health Products, Inc. factory brand, added 40,000 square feet of manufacturing space to its Fond du Lac facility.

The expansion allows the company to manufacture products more efficiently, making Basic American Medical Products even more competitive, said Kurt Hellman, Senior Vice President of Manufacturing. The company is committed to manufacturing as many products as possible in the United States, he said. The construction of a new facility in Atlanta, Ga. that manufactures Lumex Specialty Seating Products and this significant investment in the Fond du Lac facility demonstrates the company’s commitment to creating jobs locally and manufacturing in the United States, added Hellman.

This project became a reality because of the assistance and support of Fond du Lac County, the City of Fond du Lac and the great work of the Fond du Lac County Economic Development Corporation (FCEDC), Hellman said. FCEDC provided a revolving loan and technical assistance.

“This project was needed to keep us competitive in an industry prone to the outsourcing of manufacturing jobs. True economic growth is achieved by supporting any company committed to being part of the manufacturing base in Fond du Lac County. The team at FCEDC supported our efforts 110%. They truly ‘get it’ and it was a pleasure working with them,” Hellman said.

GF Health Products, Inc. has retained Keller Planners, Architects and Builders to design and build the new 40,000 square foot warehouse and manufacturing addition. Formerly operating as Basic American Metal Products, the company has occupied the existing site since 1992. Basic American Medical Products is one of the largest manufacturers of healthcare beds in the world. Learn more at www.grahamfield.com and www.bampwi.com.

Market Fresh opens in Waupun

With years of experience in grocery store management, Darryl Ortmann dreamed of owning his own store. Along with his wife, Julie, they decided to make the move. He found a location in Waupun and called the Fond du Lac County Economic Development Corporation (FCEDC).

With Waupun city officials, FCEDC staff, a lender and Ortmann at the table, Market Fresh Food Center became a reality. Ortmann, along with the property owner, invested in a new façade. The property owner repaved the parking lot in front of the store and Ortmann completed

“The team at FCEDC support-ed our efforts 110%. They truly ‘get it’ and it was a pleasure working with them.”

-Kurt HellmanSenior VP of Manufacturing

When the businesses we help are successful, we are successful.

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RagSpun moves up

RagSpun was an idea born 8 years ago while Rhonda Horvath was working to enhance a quilt for her church. RagSpun Studio LLC, a retail location in Brandon, is her latest creation and the culmination of more than 15 years experience in quilting, sewing and crafting.

RagSpuns are dimensional textured appliqués used to embellish items such as quilts, clothing, gift bags, or ornaments. Slowly she began selling RagSpuns online, shipping her product throughout the United States and the world. Working from her basement, she successfully grew her RagSpun business achieving 40% growth in 2010.

To accommodate this growth, Horvath decided to expand into a larger formal retail and production location. She needed a place to sell directly to customers and have space to work on her wholesale business. She needed a business plan to do it and she credits FCEDC for helping her complete her business plan. Horvath worked diligently to complete the plan with the results paying off. She placed second in the Northeast Wisconsin Business Plan Competition last year.

“The portfolio of services offered by FCEDC goes beyond helping with a business plan,” Horvath said. “I still go to them with questions including when I was writing my press release and when I’m looking for more demographic research. The FCEDC team really cares about this county and economic growth which is why I think Fond du Lac County is developing.”

RagSpun Studio, LLC opened in November. It is a trendy inspirational establishment offering unique exclusive supplies for creating home décor and gifts accompanied by informative educational sessions. The research she did on her business plan for RagSpun Studio LLC will guide her along her path of business ownership. She still uses it to find ways to reach customers.

extensive remodeling before opening the doors in October. It was a great partnership between all parties involved. In addition to technical assistance, FCEDC provided a revolving loan for the project.

“City officials and FCEDC worked well together which made the process of opening a business so much smoother,” Ortmann said. “I didn’t have to tell one party one thing and then repeat it. Everyone was on the same page,” he added.

The independently-owned and operated store features fresh produce, a deli, bakery, meat center and wine cellar. The store is located on the city’s west side at Park View Plaza, 1120 W. Main St.

“City officials and FCEDC worked well together which made the process of opening a business so much smoother.”

- Darryl Ortmann, Owner

“The FCEDC team really cares about this county and economic growth which is why I think Fond du lac County is developing.”

- Rhonda Horvath, Owner

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Starting a business or looking to grow a business, FCEDC helps businesses be successful.

FCEDC provides space for businesses to grow

With its high-end technology, a creative environment and professional atmosphere, The Center for Enterprise Development (The Center) is a place for budding entrepreneurs and existing businesses. The Center opened its doors in February. Of those surveyed who used the business accelerator in its debut year, 100% of respondents ranked FCEDC staff as “extremely” professional, they were “extremely” satisfied with the facility, and “extremely” likely to recommend The Center to others.

FCEDC can help businesses make better decisions through business intelligence program

FCEDC entered its third year of the Economic Gardening program and is on target to move the unique tool into our portfolio of services for startups and existing businesses. Economic Gardening provides critical information, such as market research, that is needed by businesses to survive and thrive. The program encourages development of the other qualities that help businesses including quality of life, a culture that embraces growth and change, and access to intellectual resources, and qualified and talented employees.

The Economic Gardening program also assists in developing connections between businesses, and the people and organizations that can help take them to the next level — business associations, universities, roundtable groups, service providers and more.

With the assistance of The Center for Rural Entrepreneurship, an assessment was completed. Staff, the FCEDC Board of Directors and other stakeholders were interviewed during the process to seek insight on the culture, size and nature of the entrepreneurial community, the availability and accessibility of services, and overall economic health, trends and structure of the county. A sustainability strategy emerged from the study.

In an effort to make more businesses aware of FCEDC’s Economic Garden program, and with the assistance of Brownboots Interactive, the award-winning It’s growing season campaign was launched. A list of businesses was developed and each business received a series of direct mail pieces or postcards related to the growing season. In addition to the mailings, a variety of other media sources were used including print, social media, e-blasts and an open house. The three mailings were:

1. In the first mailing, which was in the spring, nearly 200 businesses received a gardening package that included gloves, a trowel and seeds and a message encouraging businesses to plant the seeds for success and a reminder that FCEDC was ready to help.

2. In July, those same businesses received a pepper plant and a message that growing a business takes diligence and devotion, much like growing a plant, and FCEDC stands ready to help.

3. In the third and final mailing, those businesses received candy in a Mason jar, delivered by FCEDC staff with a message that hard work pays off and that FCEDC can help with future planning for growth.

FCEDC Portfolio of Services

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Entrepreneur’s Connection opens doors for entrepreneurs and others who want to start a business

Over 120 current and future business owners and professionals were able to learn of resources available to them including financing options, guerrilla marketing, relationship building and challenges facing the young or new entrepreneur at the 4th annual Entrepreneur’s Connection on November 15th. During the keynote event, a panel of entrepreneurs shared their experiences of starting and growing a business.

County Façade Program assisted businesses with improvements

FCEDC staff worked with Fond du Lac County and communities to prepare and launch the County Facade Program. FCEDC administered the program. Twenty-three businesses throughout the county each benefited from receiving a grant up to $2,000 to improve their building facades.

Client feedback provides important data for future goals

FCEDC conducted client satisfaction surveys each month as a follow-up to existing business and entrepreneurial clients who have used FCEDC’s consultation services. Surveys are sent at 6-month, 18-month and 36-month intervals from the project initiation dates. The data collected will be used to track successes and identify areas needing improvement.

Businesses on film

In addition to our annual Video Program which is unveiled at the Annual Evening and used in local commercials and our external marketing campaign, FCEDC started production of short, informative videos that can be uploaded to FCEDC’s website or YouTube channel. The first video completed is a demonstration of a Tapeless Medical product, which is manufactured in Brandon. FCEDC also worked with Keller Inc. to produce a video of the spec building for sale or lease in the FoxRidge Industrial Park. All videos are available on our YouTube Channel. See page 4 for information.

FCEDC offers options for entrepreneurs and existing businesses.

FCEDC reaches entire Fond du Lac County community.

FCEDC works closely with communities

•FCEDC Community Development Specialist Melissa Hunt continued to assist the Village of North Fond du Lac, the City of Waupun, and the City of Ripon in community development efforts.•FCEDC Business Strategist Owen Rock became an ex-officio member of the Downtown Fond du

Lac Partnership Board of Directors.

Leadership/Youth Leadership Fond du Lac Economic Development Day

FCEDC participated in the Fond du Lac Youth Leadership Class, with 19 participants February 8th and hosted the Adult Leadership Class April 20th. Once again the responses for the FCEDC portion of both sessions were very positive.

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FCEDC Portfolio of ServicesReaching businesses outside of Wisconsin through our Business Attraction Program.

FCEDC staff participated in several trade events

•The International Council of Shopping Centers (ICSC) Midwest Idea Exchange in Chicago in February to network with retailers and participate in roundtables with other municipalities.•The ICSC Wisconsin Deal Making session in Milwaukee in April which is an opportunity to market

Fond du Lac County commercial and industrial real estate opportunities.•The ICSC Chicago Deal Making event in Chicago in October to promote retail development sites

throughout Fond du Lac County including Waupun and North Fond du Lac and make contacts with developers and retailers encouraging them to explore the opportunities in the County.

FCEDC helped to simplify site location

FCEDC localized a new statewide sites and buildings database, Locate in Wisconsin, by providing this amazing tool for just Fond du Lac County and all of the City of Waupun. The embedded database, at http://www.fcedc.com/locatehere.html, streamlines the search process between site selectors and real estate professionals. Read more about Locate Here, our local property search database on page 13. FCEDC markets Fond du Lac County

The 2011 external marketing campaign, “Innovation at Work” mirrored the innovation seen on a daily basis in Fond du Lac County. Working with Blue Door Consulting, FCEDC created a one-of-a-kind video brochure that was used in a direct mailing to over 100 site selectors. The brochure showcased videos of six of our seven targeted industries and was designed to encourage site selectors to go to our website where we have market opportunities that were identified in our targeted industry study.

FCEDC recognized as high-performing dynamic organization.

FCEDC named a high-performing economic development organization

The FCEDC team was recognized in 2011 for its efforts and drive for excellence and innovation. The International Economic Development Council (IEDC) released a study in March defining what it takes to be a high-performing economic development organization. FCEDC was recognized in the study for its program which ties per capita income and earnings per worker to those businesses who use a local revolving loan fund. The study also recognized FCEDC for its highly effective board and committees.

FCEDC received Gold Award

For the second consecutive year, FCEDC was named one of the top three economic development organizations in Wisconsin by Corporate Report Wisconsin magazine. This year, FCEDC received the Gold Award. The category of best economic development organization began in 2010.

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Located in an industrial park with access to Highway 41 and 151, this newly constructed 180,000 square foot building is ready for your business. Learn more about this building and other available properties at fcedc.com/locatehere.html.

FCEDC stays connected to sustain the organization.


Marketing strategy keeps stakeholders informed

FCEDC staff has continued to participate in monthly shows on KFIZ (AM 1450) and WRPN (AM 1600). These extended informational segments have proven to be effective in informing people about FCEDC programs, services and initiatives. You can hear the live KFIZ segment with Bob Hoffmaster on the second Wednesday of each month at 10:30 a.m. The WRPN segment with Jason Mansmith can be heard at varying times on the second Thursday of each month. New cable commercials were produced with the assistance of Sirna Productions - one highlighted The Center and the other featured FCEDC services. Finally, Brownboots Interactive was retained to assist in marketing existing business services including the Economic Gardening program. See page 7 regarding FCEDC’s Economic Gardening program for details on this award-winning marketing campaign.

FCEDC continues active role in Northeast Wisconsin Regional Economic Partnership (NEWREP)

FCEDC staff participated in the NEWREP meetings throughout 2011. Melissa Hunt was a member of the NEWREP team that prepared a strategic plan, giving direction for the NEWREP partners in 2012 and beyond.

FCEDC staff participated in planning for the Northeast Wisconsin Business Plan competition. NEWREP Partners and the Business Plan Committee began working on modifications to increase participation in the contest as well as enhance the experience for applicants participating. Owen Rock is a member of the Business Plan Committee and the 2011-2012 Committee Co-Chair.

Professional Development key to FCEDC’s success

• FCEDC Business Strategist Owen Rock completed a nine-month leadership training program called STRAT (Strategy, Alignment, Talent) through Moraine Park Technical College.

• FCEDC Community Development Specialist Melissa Hunt attended the Oklahoma University Economic Development Institute in Indianapolis, IN. She is working to become a certified economic developer.

Reporting mechanisms keep stakeholders involved

FCEDC continues to hold itself accountable and reports to all stakeholders on FCEDC’s progress and achievements through quarterly reports issued by FCEDC electronically to 2,000 subscribers. In addition to updates on our strategic plan, FCEDC provides updates on economic development activity and services.

Revolving Loan Fund continues to be important program for businesses

FCEDC continued to administer five different revolving loan funds. $1.3 million in revolving loans were approved for projects that totaled $7.7 million.

FCEDC maintains partnership with Wisconsin Economic Development Association (WEDA)

FCEDC continued its association with Wisconsin Economic Development Association (WEDA), a statewide leadership effort to further economic development initiatives in the State of Wisconsin. Brenda Hicks-Sorensen, CEcD, served as a member of the Board of Directors of WEDA in 2011, co-chair of the Leadership – Building & Sites Committee and as a member of the Executive Committee. FCEDC’s Interim President Kristen Fish serves as WEDA’s executive director.

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2011 in Numbers

A client is defined as a business attraction prospect, existing business or entrepreneur who receives more than one hour of FCEDC services. New clients are defined as those clients or projects who have not previously received FCEDC services. In 2011, FCEDC served 195 clients.

2011 Sources of Funds

Private Sector Public Sector Administrative Income Contract Income Grants & Other Total

2011 Uses of Funds

Staff Operations Programs Total

$117,869$206,364$126,147$105,000$195,176$750,556

$466,823$155,281$152,549$774,653

Client Summary and Revolving Loan Funds

Revolving Loan Fund Summary

Fond du Lac County Revolving Loan Fund: As of the end of 2011, the Fond du Lac County Revolving Loan Fund (RLF) portfolio stands at $3.2 million. During 2011, loans totaling $220,000 were approved. FCEDC continues to be aggressive in searching out and obtaining new funding sources for our clients.

Small Business Revolving Loan Fund: FCEDC established a new Small Business Revolving Loan Fund (SBRLF) in 2008. $394,000 in loans are being maintained through this program.

Fond du Lac County Special Allocation Revolving Loan Fund: FCEDC began administering this fund in 2010. $500,000 inloan funds were approved in 2011.

City of Fond du Lac Economic Development Revolving Loan Fund: FCEDC began administering this revolving loan fund for the City of Fond du Lac in August of 2010. There were $461,000 of loan funds approved in 2011.

*Business Attraction includes FCEDC efforts in community development.

Clients Served

2007 201020092008 2011

200

100

Existing Business

Development46%

*BusinessAttraction

17%

BusinessStart-ups

37%

2011

Existing Business

Development47%

BusinessStart-ups

37%

*BusinessAttraction

16%

Annual Average 2007-2011

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Balanced Industry Mix Create a balanced industry mix targeting specific industry clusters in Fond du Lac County and Northeast Wisconsin. Such clusters include printing and publishing; biomedical/biotechnical (including medical technology and services); transportation and logistics; advanced materials; advanced manufacturing including metals and machinery; agribusiness, food processing and technology; and energy (fossil and renewable).

Status and Activities Toward Goal: •Updated targeted industry profiles which were

released in 2011. •Established site selector marketing program

in 2007 and have grown program every year. Successful relationships have been established through this program and leads generated.•Brought attraction projects to Fond du Lac

County.•Provided revolving loan funds, including

technical assistance, to nine companies in 2011.

Job Growth Create 2,500 new jobs matching Fond du Lac County’s labor force and training capacity. This effort will have an anticipated multiplier impact of 1.25 or 625 additional jobs. Targeted wage rates will exceed the median hourly wage.

Status and Activities Toward Goal: •2,151 new full-time and part-time expected and

1,735 positions retained

Impact on Fond du Lac County economy:

The 2,004 expected full-time positions created from industries assisted by FCEDC from 2007-2011 have a job multiplier effect of 1.99, totaling 3,990 expected jobs. For every job created by the industries that used FCEDC revolving loan funds, .99 other jobs are expected to be created in other supporting industries

for a total of 1.99. Earnings estimated for these new jobs (wages and benefits) is $207 million per year, resulting in a disposable personal income estimated at $149 million per year.

If new part-time positions are factored into the equation, the 2,151 expected new full and part-time positions have a multiplier effect (1.95) totaling 4,191 jobs. New job earnings would be $212.3 million with disposable personal income estimated at $153.4 million per year. The additional annual sales for all industries based on these expected jobs are nearly $1.1 billion per year.

The 1,735 expected retained positions results in a retention of an additional 2,147 indirect jobs for a total of 3,882 retained/saved jobs overall. Earnings estimated for these retained jobs (wages and benefits) is $212.2 million per year, resulting in disposable personal income estimated at $153.3 million per year. The additional annual sales for all industries based on these retained/saved jobs are $1.2 billion per year.

Capital Investment

Assist businesses in establishment, modernization and expansion activities that will result in $80 million in capital investments (i.e. equipment, land, building) in Fond du Lac County.

Status and Activities Toward Goal: •$343.8 million in total investment expected

Talent Attraction Facilitate the development and sustainability of an environment conducive to attracting and keeping the level of talent necessary for our businesses to gain and maintain a competitive edge.

Status and Activities Toward Goal: •Continued internal review of the talent attraction

proposal previously developed.

Source and Methodology: The multipliers of 1.99 for new full-time, 1.95 for full & part-time, and 2.24 for retained jobs are higher than that projected (1.25) because the jobs are in higher-than-average paying industries. The multipliers are rounded. Economic Modeling Specialists, Inc. (EMSI) Strategic Advantage Economic Impact Model was used to estimate the indirect jobs & earnings that result from the new jobs and retained jobs associated with FCEDC projects for 2007-2011. We were able to enter new and retained jobs in the specific industries that they are expected to be created. (EMSI Data Sources and Calculations are explained below.) Consultants at EMSI performed the calculation for sales for all industries. Disposable income is based on avg. benefits & taxes for WI Per Capita Personal Income and Per Capita Disposable Income 2010 (Bureau of Economic Analysis). Input-Output Data: The input-output model figures are created using the national Input-Output matrix provided by the federal Bureau of Economic Analysis. This is combined with the national Total Gross Output, the regional Total Gross Output, the land area of the subject region, regional DIRT data and regional in/out commuter patterns in order to calculate regional requirements, imports and exports. After using matrix algebra to calculate the regional multiplier, the resulting matrix is multiplied by the sales vector and converted back to jobs or earnings. This data comes from the U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of Economic Analysis, Industry Economic Accounts: Benchmark & Annual Input-Output (I-O) Accounts. (EMSI complete employment, 4th qtr 2011) Industry Data: In order to capture a complete picture of industry employment, EMSI combines covered employment data from Quarterly Census of Employment and Wages (QCEW) produced by the Department of Labor with total employment data in Regional Economic Information System (REIS) published by the Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA), augmented with County Business Patterns (CBP) and Nonemployer Statistics (NES) published by the U.S. Census Bureau. Projections are based on the latest available EMSI industry data, 15-year past local trends in each industry, growth rates in statewide and sub-state area industry projections published by individual state agencies, and growth rates in national projections from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. State Data: The EMSI model uses state data from the following agencies: Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development and Bureau of Workforce Information.

Progress on Strategic Goals: 2007-2011

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Site selection, demographic research simplifiedFCEDC adds new tool for site selection.

What used to take weeks to find is now available in a powerful online database called Locate in Wisconsin. This site is one-stop-shop access to business intelligence and available commercial properties throughout Wisconsin.

Fond du Lac County Economic Development Corporation (FCEDC) has added a local edition of this free property search database at http://fcedc.com/locatehere.html so businesses and site selectors can find Fond du Lac County even easier. FCEDC’s local edition is made possible through the sponsorship of ZA Commercial and First Business Bank.

Locate Here will connect our communities and commercial real estate brokers with companies trying toidentify the best location for a start-up, an expansion or a relocation site in Fond du Lac County. Using Geographic Information System (GIS) software, the database provides immediate access to in-depth information that previously took weeks to research.

Property data is loaded either directly by commercial real estate brokers or from other partnering real estate databases. Users of the database for Fond du Lac County information still have access to the larger, statewide database Locate in Wisconsin at http://wedc.org/locate-in-wisconsin-2.

Acreage, size of building, and lease or sale price are just some of the search criteria that can be selected in the database. Available properties can be viewed and maps printed showing such detail as transportation information, utilities, and building specifics including ceiling heights, and the number of docks. Corresponding demographic reports such as labor force, education levels, age and income distributions, consumer spending, and more can be created within a specific radius around a property. General demographics for a village or city within Fond du Lac County can be found using the Community Search tab. In addition, businesses are mapped by industry showing their distribution and concentrations throughout the area.

This critical business intelligence is important to making an investment decision. In today’s information economy, the Locate in Wisconsin database delivers economic development services and information in

real-time. For more information or to learn how to add your properties to the database contact FCEDC at (920) 929-2928 or [email protected]

Business intelligence reports can be created effortlessly, supplying critical information about the labor force, demographics, consumer spending, wages and business concentration within a specific radius around a selected property (left). The Sites or Buildings Search tabs return available commercial land or buildings based on searchable criteria such as city or village, acreage, size of building, and more (right).

Looking Forward

The Fond du Lac County Economic Development Corporation (FCEDC) is the premier economic development organization and to learn why, just look in our portfolio. That portfolio includes a professional staff, a variety of programs that help businesses grow, a dedicated Board of Directors, and the support of community and business leaders.

All parts of the portfolio must work together so Fond du Lac County can provide the most efficient path for job creation and for businesses to grow. FCEDC has once again mapped out a plan to do that.

Last year marked the final leg of FCEDC’s five-year strategic plan. A new 2012-2014 strategic plan was drafted. The organization chose to shorten the time frame to reflect the speed and complexity of the business climate and a three-year strategic plan works.

The new strategic plan is flexible enough for any expansion or retention efforts for existing businesses while leaving the door open for opportunities that could come to Fond du Lac County. We look forward to how our new president, Steve Jenkins, puts his stamp on the strategic plan.

Consultation, revolving loan funds, entrepreneurial services, market opportunity data, and business intelligence research are FCEDC’s core services. In true FCEDC form, this organization added two more to the list – The Center for Enterprise Development (The Center) and Locate Here, a powerful commercial property search database.

Many entrepreneurs and businesses used our business accelerator, The Center, in its debut year. We look forward to having even more businesses and entrepreneurs take advantage of this facility with its high-end technology, creative surroundings, and flexible space.

Locate Here is a free property search database at http://www.fcedc.com/locatehere.html and made possible through the sponsorship of ZA Commercial and First Business Bank. This site will connect our communities and commercial real estate brokers with companies trying to identify the best location for a start-up, an expansion or a relocation site in Fond du Lac County. Using Geographic Information System (GIS) software, the database provides immediate access to in-depth information that previously took weeks to research. We look forward to watching the growth of this site.

FCEDC will continue its efforts in Madison by working closely with the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation (WEDC) and Wisconsin Economic Development Association (WEDA) to ensure Fond du Lac County has a voice at the state level.

The dedication of the FCEDC Board of Directors and the commitment and support we receive from our investors will be more important than ever as we move into the new economy. The FCEDC team stands ready to move forward with the skills and knowledge to accelerate growth in Fond du Lac County.

Sincerely,

Bob PochKeller Inc., 2012 Chair FCEDC Board of Directors

FCEDC’s portfolio of services is impressive.

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“The FCEDC team stands ready to move forward with the skills and knowledge to accelerate growth in Fond du Lac County.”

-Bob Poch2012 FCEDC Chair, Board of Directors

It is an extreme honor to have been selected to lead the Fond du Lac County Economic Development Corporation into the future. My wife, Lynn, and I are very excited about being a part of the community. Fond du Lac County and its communities are beautiful and offer so much for individuals, families and businesses to find success and prosperity.

We have seen some dramatic changes in the economic structure of the nation and the world since 2008. Coming out of this Great Recession, we will be dealing with new challenges for creating local prosperity and economic growth. The challenges are not insurmountable but definitely different.

Success in the near- and long-term will require a different mindset, one that is not deterred by constantly changing and evolving conditions, but rather a mindset that is searching for new opportunities and implementing strategies to seize those opportunities before our competition does. The new challenges of building and sustaining a strong local economy are complicated by the speed of change at every level, accelerating technologies and waves of innovation. Whole sectors, once the sole competitive ground of the U.S., are disappearing, being replaced by new sectors with new location and workforce demands.

Although there will be uniquely different challenges, there will also be significant new opportunities. These opportunities will offer enhanced levels of economic success for those willing to explore new ideas and strategies. The political adage “all politics are local” also applies to economic development. Today, it must start on the local level with strategies and programs that differentiate and set communities apart. It will be essential that communities set themselves apart from the competition to be successful.

Future success is no longer assured or guided by past success. The competitive environment is escalating rapidly and success will depend on understanding the new economic landscape. We must also deploy creativity, innovation and a willingness to take risks. Communities, organizations, and regions must embrace collaboration and cooperative strategies that are focused on a vision of a better future for every citizen they serve.

New economic prosperity in the future will not just happen on its own. It will take vision, consistency of effort, hard work, flexibility and adaptability. The business world is being driven by the same criteria and communities must address their competitive environments that will contribute to business success. Otherwise why would a business locate, stay or grow in communities not creating an environment for success? The unconventional times we find ourselves in call for new innovative, adaptable strategies.

My commitment is to serve Fond du Lac County with the creation of new economic opportunities for the community. Simply, this involves the creation of quality new jobs, attraction of new private investments that build the tax base, and the nurturing of entrepreneurial enterprises. Additionally, we want to make Fond du Lac County the best community in which to live and work in Wisconsin. Together, with your help and support, we will make these things become reality.

Sincerely,

Steve R. Jenkins, CEcDFCEDC President

Fond du Lac County needs to work together to seize economic opportunties.

A message from the FCEDC president

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“We want to make Fond du Lac County the

best community in which to live and work in Wisconsin.”

-Steve JenkinsFCEDC President

Our Valued Investors The number in parentheses indicates years of investment in FCEDC.

Accurate Controls (7)Action Advertising (12)Actra Rehabilitation Association (4)Advanced Paper Enterprises (3)Advanced Tooling (new investor)Advantage Accounting (5)Agnesian HealthCare (24)Ahern-Gross (23)Alliance Laundry Systems (22)Alliant Energy (23)Aluminum Resources (20)AMC of Wisconsin, Inc. (new investor)American Bank (24)Associated Bank (22)Baker Cheese (13)Baker Tilly (7)Bank of Fond du Lac (2)Bank of Oakfield (17)Basic American Metals (9)BCI Burke Company (10)Blue Door Consulting (new investor)Bluemkes, Inc. (9)Bob and Maureen Poch (4)Brenner Tank (20)BrownBoots Interactive (2)Burg Homes & Design Inc. (2)C.D. Smith Construction (22)Campbellsport Building Supply (13)Capelle Bros & Diedrich (16)Charter Communications (15)Citizens First Credit Union (7)City of Fond du Lac (23)City of Ripon (13)City of Waupun (14)Combination Door Co. (18)Condon Oil Company (16)Consultants Laboratory (22)Cowles-Henke-Kemmel Ins. Agency (4)Dean W. Uelmen, DDS (10) Edgarton, St. Peter, Petak, Rosenfeldt (24)Edward Jones (12)Electro Plating Company (11)EP-Direct (2)F. Ziegler Enterprises (14) Faith Technologies (11)Flood Homes (24)Fond du Lac Bumper Exchange (13)Fond du Lac County (23)Fond du Lac Skyport (5)

Ford & Harbridge Ins. & Financial Svc. (15)Forest Mall (11)Fox Valley Savings Bank (23)Foy & Springborn (9)Grande Cheese Company (24)Grant Thornton (21)Graphic Center (7)Green Lake Bank (2)Guaranty Title Services (16)Guenther Supply (19)Guilfoile Insurance (13)Haber/M&M Printing (13)Hierl Insurance (20)Holiday Automotive (24)Holiday Chrysler Dodge Jeep (15)Holiday Inn/WISCO Partners (23)Hometown Bank (14)Horicon Bank (12)Hornung Golf Products (23)Huberty & Associates (21)Hutter Property Services (14)Ideal Chiropractic (3)INFO-PRO Mortgage Services (3) Integrity Saw & Tool (14)Jack Twohig Carpet One (16)Jackson Kahl Insurance Services (7)J.F. Ahern Co. (24)Jet Stream Enterprises (22)Keller, Inc. (11)Linstrom’s Catering (4)Lutheran Homes & Health Services (5)M&I Bank, a part of BMO Financial Group (21)Manowske Welding (18) Marchant Schmidt (18)Marian University (17)McClone Agency (13)McNamara & Thiel Insurance (8)Mercury Marine (24)Michel’s Corporation (11)Mid-States Aluminium Corp. (23)Muthig Industries, Inc. (21)National Exchange Bank & Trust (23)Natural Stone Veneers (6)Northcentral Construction (2)Osborn & Son Trucking (7)Ottery Transportation (14)PanelTEK (10)Pit Stop Portables (2)Pro Motorsports of Fond du Lac (2)Quality Packaging (3)

RB Royal Industries (20)Ripon Printers (20)Sadoff and Rudoy Industries (11)Sam Meyer/State Farm (8)Schenck Business Solutions (22)Service Master Commercial Services (9) Sirna Productions (2)Society Insurance (24)Sorenson Law Office (21)Stuart’s Landscaping & Garden Center (5)The Goldsmith (new investor)The Nielsen Company (3)The Reporter (21)Timon Perron Trucking (14)Tom’s Quality Millwork (7)Town of Fond du Lac (11)United Parts Plus (14)US Bank (22)UW-Fond du Lac (5)Vanderkin Plumbing (2)Vande Zande & Kaufman, LLP (14)Village of Brandon (5)Village of Campbellsport (8)Village of Fairwater (4)Village of North Fond du Lac (13)Village of Oakfield (7)Village of Rosendale (3)W.J. Leasa Electric (17)W.W. Electric Motors (21)Warehouse Specialists (19)Waupun Memorial Hospital (18)Waupun Utilities (6)Webster’s United Foods (5)Wendt’s on the Lake (4)West Bend Machine Works (5)WIPFLi (10)wisnet.com (14)ZA Commercial (new investor)Zacherl, O’Malley & Endejan (16)

Our valued reciprocal partners:

Campbellsport Area Chamber of CommerceFond du Lac Area Association of CommerceRipon Area Chamber of CommerceWaupun Area Chamber of Commerce

updated 3/9/2012

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Our services would not be possible without our investors.

To join this list of business leaders, contact FCEDC (920) 929-2928 [email protected] www.fcedc.com

www.fcedc.com

116 N. Main Street, PO Box 1303, Fond du Lac, WI 54936-1303(920) 929-2928 [email protected]