VCEDC Leads High-Speed Broadband Expansion
Broadband is critical for robust tourism and to diversify and grow Vilas County’s economy – all to support you as entrepreneurs, remote workers, and expanding businesses.
Broadband Expansion: Transforming Vilas County
The Vilas County Economic Development Corporation has expanded high-speed internet access to 86% of addresses in the county, significantly enhancing connectivity.
In the spring of 2020, only 5% of Vilas County had broadband coverage. Today, we’ve reached 86%—and we’re still expanding.
That means you can experience the charm of the Northwoods with the connection of a big city—locally, regionally, and around the globe. If you’ve ever dreamed of living and working where you vacation, Vilas County is ready for you.
We are your Northwoods Broadband Destination—supporting tourism, entrepreneurship, existing businesses, and remote workers.
“Going from 5% to 86% broadband coverage in just five years has been truly remarkable. However, it’s not just implementing broadband that’s important, it’s what you do with it that will strengthen our economy. So now, we’re sharing our story throughout the Midwest in a first-of-its-kind broadband destination ad campaign.” ~ Kathy Schmitz, VCEDC Executive Director.
Take a moment to hear from Vanessa, a remote worker; Dan Beihoff, Owner Eagle River Roasters; Heidi Reiter Kramsvogel, Market Manager, IncredibleBank; Noah Lottig, Chair, VCEDC Broadband Committee; Mark Olejniczak, Construction Manager, Construction-Rural Build-WI Charter Spectrum; and Kathy Schmitz, VCEDC Executive Director, about the impact high-speed broadband is making in Vilas County.
Special thanks to IncredibleBank and to another private foundation for their support of this Broadband Destination Campaign!
Overall Broadband Destination Campaign
Meet The VCEDC Broadband Workgroup
Kathy Schmitz
Executive Director
Noah Lottig
Broadband Workgroup Chair
Jim Tuckwell
Board Chair
Broadband Expansion in Vilas County: A Game Changer
From 5% to 86% Broadband Coverage in 4.5 less than 5 Years!
In spring 2020, only 5% of Vilas County had broadband coverage. Therefore, knowing that high-speed broadband is the foundation for a strong economy, the Vilas County Economic Development Corporation identified Broadband expansion as a key strategic initiative. As a result, it formed the VCEDC Broadband Workgroup, setting the stage to identify and implement goals, objectives, and develop key partnerships with the Internet Service Providers and Vilas County townships to advance high-speed fiber broadband in Vilas County.
Today 86% of Vilas County is covered in high-speed broadband, making Vilas County stand out among counties north of Highway 8 as a Broadband Destination in the Northwoods. This supports tourism, entrepreneurs, existing businesses, and remote work, all of which increase revenue for our economy. With recent approval from the Federal Telecommunications Administration, grant requests from Brightspeed, Eighth Fire Communications, and Norvado will bring the total to almost 96 percent over the next couple of years.
Goals and Key Players
The main goal of this initiative was clear: Establish a “Vilas First” strategy to provide reliable and high-speed internet access to a vast majority of the county. Here’s how we achieved this:
- Strategic Planning: Comprehensive assessments to identify underserved areas and optimal locations for infrastructure upgrades.
- Partnerships: Collaborations with internet service providers and local government to pool resources and expertise. We made it easy to do business in Vilas County, with the VCEDC serving as a ‘one stop shop’ for the internet service providers to do business here.
- Community Engagement: Regular forums and consultations to incorporate community feedback and align the project with local needs.
Positive Impacts on Local Businesses
Reliable broadband access has revolutionized business operations in the area. Businesses can now seamlessly integrate digital tools, expand their reach through online marketing, and improve customer engagement.
Empowerment of Remote Workers
Remote workers, once hindered by poor connectivity, are now thriving. Our broadband expansion allows individuals to work efficiently from the comfort of their homes. This shift supports work-life balance and attracts remote professionals to our scenic region.
Tech-Driven Enterprise Growth
With enhanced connectivity, businesses find Vilas County increasingly attractive. Our improved infrastructure supports new and emerging businesses looking to operate in a tech-friendly environment while enjoying our beautiful Northwoods environment.
This development has been crucial in diversifying and strengthening the local economy.
You Can Help Us Create A Stronger
Northwoods Economy
Want to learn why Vilas County is one of the best places to live, work, and play?
Reach out to Kathy at the Vilas County Economic Development Corporation today!
