February 26, 2026
The Vilas County Economic Development Corporation (VCEDC) is pleased to announce the launch of its Women in Business Program, a new initiative designed to fully equip Vilas County women with the support, tools, and connections needed to start and grow successful businesses.
The program is supported by two significant grants: one from a private foundation to expand the VCEDC’s women-focused programming and services and another from the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation (WEDC) to strengthen the VCEDC’s support and resources for Vilas County entrepreneurs and small businesses in Vilas County.
The VCEDC is also excited to announce the addition of Lisa Myszka as Program Manager – Small Business and Women in Business to oversee these vital programs. Lisa will serve as an independent contractor helping to coordinate program delivery, strengthen community partnerships and outreach, and support entrepreneurs throughout 2026. A Vilas County resident, Lisa brings a broad and accomplished business background and is an active member of the VCEDC Vilas County Women in Business Committee.
“Women play a critical role in the Northwoods economy, with 55% of businesses in Vilas County owned or co-owned by women,” said Kathy Schmitz, VCEDC Executive Director. Yet research shows women can face unique barriers to starting and growing a business. With these new grant investments and Lisa’s leadership, we can offer more hands-on support, stronger connections, and practical tools that will further help women build strong, sustainable businesses right here in the Northwoods.”
The VCEDC Women in Business Program addresses challenges with programming designed for women to succeed through several components:
- Lunch & Learn Webinars: VCEDC’s popular virtual business education series will include sessions tailored to women. Topics may include personal branding, financing, e-commerce, and lessons and guidance from women business leaders.
- In-Person Networking Events: These in-demand events strengthen connections among women in business across Vilas County. This includes the annual and historically sold out VCEDC Spring Networking Brunch, now in its fourth year.
- 1-on-1 Small Business Consulting: The dedicated Program Manager, together with the VCEDC Executive Director and Board of Directors, will help women set goals, plan and grow their businesses, and solve problems.
- Women’s Mentorship Cohort: This new service will pair newer entrepreneurs with experienced business leaders for guided support and connection.
- Digital Business Toolkit: An upcoming online toolkit will provide templates, checklists, and resources for business planning, finance, and marketing.
The program runs from January to December 2026, with registration for consulting and mentorship opening in early 2026.
For more information or to get involved as a participant, volunteer, or donor, contact kathy@vilascountyedc.org or lisa.myszka@vilascountyedc.org.
The Vilas County Economic Development Corporation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, has a mission to build a strong, diverse Northwoods economy with an entrepreneurial mindset. For more information or to donate, visit www.vilascountyedc.org.
