Network of Business Resources for Vilas County Entrepreneurs
The Vilas County Economic Development Corporation partners with a robust network of support for small business owners—from business planning to financial guidance. These services include: Creating a business plan, identifying funding sources, developing marketing strategies, and developing website and social media strategies. Together with the Vilas County EDC, below are key organizations ready to help you grow and succeed. We have the connections and resources to help bring your vision to life!
Vilas County Economic Development Corporation
The VCEDC is a 501c3 non-profit organization focused on building a strong, resilient economy in the Northwoods. It is composed of a board of directors – CEO’s and business leaders from various sectors, together with the VCEDC Executive Director, who are dedicated to sharing their knowledge with Vilas County entrepreneurs to achieve success.
The VCEDC offers a wide range of professional services including one-on-one business support, networking events, and assistance with marketing and social media strategy – all at no charge. VCEDC also hosts virtual educational Lunch & Learn sessions including topics such as E-commerce, information on Business Taxes, Grants and Loans, Creating a Digital Platform, and much more.
Contact Kathy Schmitz, VCEDC Executive Director, today: kathy@vilascountyedc.org
Nicolet College: School of Business & Entrepreneurship
Nicolet College’s School of Business & Entrepreneurship offers degrees and certificates in areas such as Business Management, Accounting, Office and Tribal Business Management, and Digital Marketing. Through its Small Business & Entrepreneurship initiative, the college provides workshops like NET (Nicolet Entrepreneurial Thinking) and Preparing for Entrepreneurial Success, helping entrepreneurs develop business plans, assess readiness, and receive coaching. Additional professional development courses, including an 8-week Entrepreneurship Essentials program, offer mentorship, market analysis, and startup planning support.
Small Business Development Center at UW-Stevens Point (SBDC)
The SBDC at UW-Stevens Point offers no-cost, confidential consulting and business education to entrepreneurs across nine counties-including Vilas. Services include startup guidance, financial planning, marketing strategy, and succession planning. Their Entrepreneurial Training Program and First Steps classes are especially popular with new business owners.
U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA)
The SBA supports small businesses through loan programs, training, and access to resource partners like SCORE, SBDCs, and Women's Business Centers. They help with business planning, government contracting, exporting, and more. In Vilas County, SBA services are delivered in partnership with the UW-Stevens Point Small Business Development Center.
Website: www.sba.gov/local-assistance
UW-Stevens Point SBDC
eFund - Entrepreneur Fund
eFund helps small businesses in Northern Wisconsin access capital, strategic planning, and expert coaching. Their consultants offer deep experience in community banking, branding, and sustainable growth. eFund frequently partners with VCEDC to host webinars and Lunch & Learn sessions.
Website: www.efund.org
WWBIC - Wisconsin Women's Business Initiative Corporation
WWBIC provides loans up to $100,000, financial education, and business coaching, with a focus on women, veterans, and underserved entrepreneurs. They offer networking events like "Strong Women Strong Coffee" and ongoing technical assistance.
Website: www.wwbic.com
Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation (WEDC)
The Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation, established in 2011, is a public–private entity that leads the state’s economic development efforts by providing loans, grants, tax credits, and advisory services to businesses and communities. Governed by an 18-member board, WEDC supports business growth, innovation, entrepreneurship, and community revitalization.
Website: https://wedc.org/
SCORE - Service Corps of Retired Executives
SCORE was formed in 1964 as a resource partner of the U.S. Small Business Administration whose mission is to help aspiring and existing businesses succeed through mentoring and education. SCORE provides free, confidential mentoring and business education to entrepreneurs at every stage. SCORE also hosts webinars, workshops, and planning tools tailored to small business needs.
Website: www.score.org
