USDA Rural Business Development Grants Program has awarded over 1 million dollars
Oct 13, 2026, 1:53 PM CT
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In a major effort to stimulate economic growth and expand job opportunities across rural Wisconsin, Wisconsin State Director Andrew Iverson announced $1.024 million in investments through the USDA Rural Business Development Grants Program. The funds are allocated across 11 distinct rural business projects ranging from food cooperatives and independent hotels to agricultural initiatives and specialized technical training.
The program aims to mentor and advise local business owners, providing key resources to support diverse endeavors. Funded projects include customized technical training for tribal communities via The Community Education Initiative Inc., strategic economic planning in Waupun and Winneconne by the East Central Wisconsin Regional Planning Commission, and tailored assistance for disabled entrepreneurs through Easter Seals Wisconsin Inc. Additionally, the Forest County Potawatomi Community will deliver an Indigenous Entrepreneurship Training Program, while the Waupaca County Economic Development Corporation will establish a revolving loan fund to assist small businesses.
Todd Coppernoll oversees local news for WRCO and WRCE radio in Richland Center. Having served Richland Center as Mayor for three terms, Todd brings a unique perspective, and a familiar voice to the news. The focus is local, and so is the reporter.
Adam Hess has been involved in radio broadcasting since 1990, with many of those years spent on the air at WRCO FM in Richland Center. Currently, Adam hosts the Weekend Wake-up and Prime Mover Saturdays on WRCO FM, jumps in and helps out with news duties, handles Social Media duties for WRCO and WRCE, and is the Director of Technology at a Southwest Wisconsin School District. Reach him at adam.hess@civicmedia.us.
